Shade-loving bamboo plants for UK Gardens

Bamboo is a versatile and resilient plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, including deep shade. While many bamboo species prefer full sun or partial shade, there are several varieties that can tolerate or even prefer deep shade. 

These shade-loving bamboo can add a unique and lush touch to any garden, even those with limited sunlight.

Shade-loving bamboo plants

 There are several species of bamboo that can tolerate or even prefer shade in the UK, including:

• Phyllostachys aureosulcata 'Spectabilis', also known as yellow groove bamboo. It can tolerate some shade but also grows well in full sun.
• Sasa veitchii, also known as dwarf bamboo, prefers shade or dappled sunlight.
• Pleioblastus viridistriatus is a small bamboo that can tolerate deep shade.
• Pleioblastus chino 'Kanapaha' is a dwarf bamboo that prefers partial shade.

Specific conditions in which a bamboo will thrive will depend on a variety of factors, such as the specific microclimate in your garden, the soil type, and the amount of water and fertilizer the plant receives.

Phyllostachys aureosulcata 'Spectabilis'

One of the most popular shade-loving bamboo is Phyllostachys aureosulcata 'Spectabilis', also known as yellow groove bamboo. 

This bamboo species is known for its striking yellow culms, or bamboo stalks, which can reach up to 6 metres tall. 

While this bamboo species can tolerate some shade, it also grows well in full sun. It is considered winter hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celcius.

Sasa veitchii

Another shade-loving bamboo is Sasa veitchii, also known as dwarf bamboo. This is a small bamboo that prefers shade or dappled sunlight. It can reach a maximum height of around 1 - 1.5 metres and can be used as a ground cover or as an accent plant. 

Sasa Veitchii has a fine textured leaf which makes it a great bamboo variety to add to a garden that needs a softer touch.

Pleioblastus viridistriatus

Pleioblastus viridistriatus is another small bamboo that can tolerate deep shade. It is a clumping bamboo that grows to a height of around 05 - 1 metre, making it a great option for smaller gardens. 

Its leaves are a vibrant green and are about 3 centimetres long. This bamboo is great for planting under trees or in other areas where sunlight is limited.

Pleioblastus chino 'Kanapaha' 

Pleioblastus chino 'Kanapaha' is a dwarf bamboo that prefers partial shade. It is a clumping bamboo that reaches a height of around 1 2 metres. It has a fine textured leaf and it is considered as a dwarf bamboo variety. 

It is a great option for planting along the edge of a garden or near a patio where it can be appreciated up close.

Planting bamboo in deep shade

When planting bamboo in deep shade, it is important to keep in mind that these plants may not grow as quickly or reach their full potential as they would in a sunnier location. However, with proper care and maintenance, they can still thrive and add a unique touch to your garden.

Here are some important tips to bear in mind:

• The bamboo varieties listed above can tolerate deep shade, but they still need some sunlight to thrive. They will need at least 2-3 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow well.
• Always ensure that the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. 
• Bamboo prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of around 6.0-7.0.
• Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as bamboo is susceptible to root rot.

Proper plant care and maintenance

In addition to proper care and maintenance, bamboo also benefits from regular fertilization. 

Use a high-nitrogen fertiliser, such as a 17-9-11 fertilizer, to ensure that the plant receives the necessary nutrients to grow and thrive.

All in all, many bamboo species prefer full sun or partial shade, the varieties mentioned here can tolerate or even prefer deep shade. 

These shade-loving bamboo plants can add a unique and lush touch to any garden, even those with limited sunlight. With proper care and maintenance, these bamboo plants can thrive and add a unique touch to your garden.

10 Air Purifying Bathroom Plants

Freshening up your bathroom by placing plants in it. Choose plants that are bright happy colours and shade-tolerant. 

In this article, you'll find out about the 10 air-purifying bathroom plants and their benefits - what makes the ideal plants for your bathroom.

What makes the best bathroom plants?

There’s no reason why your bathroom can’t be decorated like the other rooms of your home. Consider plants that have these 5 features:

• High shade-tolerant
• Are bright happy colours.
• Love a warm and humid environment.
• Can stand up to the cramped spaces of the bathroom.

Buy shade-loving plants from Thompson & Morgan

Bathroom plants polled the best

Create a Tropical Oasis in your bathroom to boost your well-being. So what plants are proven to be best for bathrooms? A comparison of over 100 online opinion polls and social media posts was reassuring. 

Many participants were houseplants fans and hobbyists. Over 95% recommended these 10 bathroom plants. 

1. Orchid
2. Bamboo
3. Calathea
4. Aloe Vera
5. Spider Plant
6. Snake Plant
7. Golden Pathos (Devil’s Ivy)
8. Monstera Swiss Cheese plant
9. Tacca chantrieri ('Bat Flower')
10. Tradescantia Nanouk ('Fantasy Venice')

Golden Pathos (Devil’s Ivy)

Air purifying plants

Bathroom plants have several health benefits too. These plants are great air purifiers. 

The spider plants will remove impurities like formaldehyde/carbon monoxide from the air. 

Bamboo grows in almost any light level without soil. 

Peace Lilly leaves filter air, producing better air quality.

Bathroom challenge

Have you ever been to a spa or a beachside resort with bathrooms inspired by the tropics? Lush greenery and the subtle scent of coconut fill the room. 

The sound of water can be heard ever so slightly and the iridescent colours remind you of shimmering shells beneath the waves. Sound familiar? 

If this is your ultimate ambience, there’s no reason you can’t bring this theme home. With the right bathroom plants, you can turn your bathroom into a dreamy tropical oasis in no time.

Anthurium Plant Flamingo Flower

Anthurium plant is an epiphyte that thrives in rich organic humus, moisture and shade which is why it's one of the best shade plants to grow. 

This plant is undemanding and requires less care, it does not necessarily need soil to grow.

Common name: Anthurium

Other names: Flamingo Flower, Tail Flower, Painted Tongue Plant, Bird's Nest Anthurium, Water Dragon Anthurium, Bird's Nest Anthurium

Native to: South America

Shop Anthurium Plants

Anthurium Plant shade or sun

Anthurium plant thrives in shade and part shade. They love natural light, but direct sunlight will kill the leaves and flowers.

A flowering Anthurium plant will need a good dose of bright, indirect light. 

New plants will thrive in low light, but plants flowering must be moved to a location where there is at least 4 - 6 hours of natural light. 

Low light will dull the colour of the flowers.

Varieties of Anthurium flowers

White flowering Anthurium

 Anthurium 'White Champion' is a fantastic variation of the common red Anthurium flowers. It is one cultivar that will make your friends go... 'WOW-I-didn't-know-there's-white-anthurium' 

Red flowering Anthurium

Anthurium Red Champion produces dark luscious flowers. The Flamingo flowers are great if you want to add a bright splash of colour to any indoor room.

Pink flowering Anthurium

Anthurium 'Pink Champion' has bright pink flowers that contrast beautifully with the shiny leaves. This is an Anthurium cultivar that resembles a pink flamingo. 

Yellow flowering Anthurium

Anthurium 'Vanilla Champion' has creamy yellow and green flowerheads, each with a distinctive yellow 'tail', top the slender upright stems that rise above the large and lustrous leaves.

Anthurium plants in water

The Anthurium Flamingo Flowers thrive in moist areas. Water thoroughly when soil, bark or the growing medium is dry. 

The large leaves and flowers mean a high rate of transpiration, so where there is more light, more water will need. So water regularly.

Anthurium leaves yellowing 

Yellowing of the leaves is a sign of stress caused by a lack of moisture, overwatering or cold. A combination of all three factors can decimate the plant.

Also, Anthurium plant requires good potting compost or soil consisting of bark and perlite or peat moss. 

If Anthurium leaves turn yellow, spray the leaves with water every now and then. And keep them moist and warm.

Calathea Plants Grow Well in Shade [Calathea crocata, rifibarba, orbifolai, markoyana, triostar]

There are over 60 species with variegated leaves in shades of pink, orange, red, white and purple. They produce yellow, purple or white blooms in summer. 

Calatheas come from the deep rainforests of the Amazon where there is heavy shade and high humidity and temperature. They thrive in very little light and are one of the best indoor plants. 

Calathea White Star

• Common name: Calathea
• Other names: Prayer Plants, Zebra Plants, Rattlesnake Plants, The Living Plant
• Native to: South America, Pacific Islands

Buy Calathea plants from top UK suppliers

Calatheas are shade-loving plants that thrive in low low-light areas, the easiest houseplants to care for.

Common Calathea varieties

Calathea crocata (Tassmania Orange' or Eternal Flame) 

Eternal Flame has beautiful dark green coloured leaves and bright yellow flowers

Calathea rifibarba (Fuzzy Feathers Plant or Velvet Calathea)

Commonly known as the Fuzzy Feathers Plant, it has long, dark-green, feather-like, fuzzy leaves that have maroon undersides.

Calathea orbifolai (The Prayer Plant)

The prayer plant is a large Calathea plant, it has large, round leaves and air-purifying qualities. The top and bottom sides of the leave are striped with pale silver-green variegated markings.

Calathea markoyana (Peacock plant) 

Peacock plants have oval pale green leaves with dark green patterns. The top and bottom sides of the leave have dark purple to red stripes.

Calathea triostar (Stromanthe Triostar) 

Cathalea triostar is known for its incredible colourful leaves with pink undersides. It is a rare cultivar that is now trending.

How do you propagate a Calathea?

The best way to propagate a Calathea is by base separation also called dividing.

Propagate the new plants early in spring. Separate the rhizomes taking care not to destroy any new roots - the segments will detach easily.

Plant the segmented parts in well-drained, moist soil.

Calathea leaves turning brown

This is the main problem Calathea plants face. If the leaves turn brown, it means that they are getting too much direct light, it's too cold.

Do these quick checks:

• Light: Is your plant in direct light?
• Soil: Is the soil moist and well-drained, not waterlogged?
• Pot: Is the pot or container suitable for the plant?

If the answer to questions is no, take action immediately to revive your plant.

Revive Calathea plants

To revive a dying Calathea plant, make sure light is not the main cause of the problem, If the plant is in direct light, move it to a location where there is sufficient natural light and is also warm.

Also, check the soil and ensure it is moist but not waterlogged roots exposure to stagnant water can upset the plant. 

The pot and container you use can also affect the health of the plant. Ensure that the holding pot has a drainage hole at the bottom for water to shive freely. Bigger plants will require repotting.

#Calathea is native to South America and parts of the island of New Guinea. Also known as the Living Plant, a fantastic #houseplant.

Got to find a place for it now ;)x pic.twitter.com/hJECpuiBuM

— G.B.P (@BambooPlantsUK) September 30, 2022

Bamboo Plants for Sale UK

Garden bamboo plants are popular in the United Kingdom (UK) and are the main features of many gardens. 

They have attractive foliage and bring a tropical effect to the garden, evergreen and dense. 

They are a delight to have in the gardens - here are bamboo plants for sale from top UK suppliers.

Phyllostachys vivax Garden Bamboo Plants

Running vs. clump-forming bamboo

The bamboo plants are native to tropical and sub-tropical areas but come cultivars thrive in temperate in the UK.

Bamboo varieties such as red bamboo, black bamboo and yellow bamboo do exceptionally well in British weather.

 Fargesia robusta and Fargesia nitida are among the best umbrella bamboo for screening because they have dense foliage from top to bottom. 

Although some bamboo varieties are invasive, many UK gardeners are finding simple ways to grow and contain bamboo plants.

Buy Bamboo Plants for Screening

Clumping Bamboo Plants UK

Small bamboo plants, the clump-forming bamboo plants are great pot and container plants.

The prices are reflective of the various sizes of the plants at the time of the article and a subject to change.

Check with your local garden centre and online stores. Here is a list of top UK bamboo suppliers.

Bamboo plants in pots for sale

The ‘Price range’ in the tables above takes the lower-end price from the major online markets like e-Bay and Amazon at the time of this article.

Costs of Bamboos ranges between £20 and £60 or can be even higher. When buying plants, always choose a reputable garden shop because they sell high-quality plants.

Always check the post and package cost as this may not be included in the final cost of the bamboo plant. This may be dumb, but it is the best way to avoid paying more than you should.

The upper price limits are from the leading Garden Centres in the UK. The upper price limits are indicative of the delivery prices. However, the prices do fluctuate, therefore check the actual door price before making a purchase.

Buy screening bamboo plants

Online bamboo P&P: 

Getting bargain garden bamboo plants from online marketplaces like Amazon and e-Bay can be satisfying.

However, the price of Garden Bamboo Plants from online marketplaces does not include the postage and packing, P&P.

Therefore, it is perhaps important to check out the actual cost price of the plant on sale before buying it.

Home bamboo delivery: 

Many established Garden Centres and online garden shops in the UK factored the cost of delivery into their charges.

Though it may look expensive, the price of bamboo plants on sale is always the home-delivery price.

So whether you are thinking of buying from the major online marketers or at your favourite garden shops, use the Price Range in the tables in this article as a guide. 

Check out GBP Blog's archive and YouTube Videos for tips and tricks to Grow Bamboo Plants in the UK.  It has an updated collection of articles on ALL-YOU-NEED-TO-GROW-BAMBOO plants.

Fargesia Rufa Fountain Bamboo

 Fargesia murielae Rufa is a popular Fountain Bamboo bamboo plant to grow in the UK. It is a fast-growing and non-invasive fountain bamboo.

The upright hardy green culms, small branches and thick evergreen foliage are easy to control. This bamboo is ideal for privacy screening and hedging.

Bamboo Fargesia Rufa is a Clump-forming Bamboo commonly referred to as the Chinese Fountain bamboo or Dragon Head bamboo.

Clump-forming bamboo plants for sale

Here is where to buy the clump-forming bamboo plants online.  

We listed some top UK Home and Garden bamboo suppliers like Crocus and YouGarden.

Also, check out Amazon bamboo suppliers.

Fargesia murielae Rufa Features

• Identification: Bamboo Rufa, Chinese Fountain Bamboo, Dragon Head Bamboo.
• Site: Sun, partial shade, or shade
• Soil: Moist but well-drained fertile soil.
• Uses: Privacy screening, hedging, pots, containers, or an individual planting
• Temperature hardiness: - 24 degrees Celcius
• Height: 2 – 3m
• Spread: 1.5 - 2m
• Foliage colour: Dense green, prune to get compact foliage.
• Grow and care: Fast-growing bamboo, non-invasive and undemanding.

An Exotic Garden with Fargesia Rufa & Bamboo Water Fountain [IMAGE CREDIT:  Andrew Newiss @anewiss/Twitter]

Maintain Fargesia Rufa [Fountain Bamboo]

You can propagate this bamboo in two ways, either by separation of the clumps or by rhizome cuttings.

Either way, it is important to propagate the new cuttings in a propagation medium (preferably in Spring) before replanting the following season.

This bamboo is a tough, hardy and evergreen clump-forming bamboo. It is non-invasive and demands less attention.

To ensure that the bamboo stays healthy, check the leaves and soil, and add mulch where necessary. If you prune this bamboo, it will form neat and compact foliage.

Put the leaves under bamboo because they contain organic traces of silica which is rich in potassium. Add mulch in early Spring and fertiliser, if necessary.

Is it an indoor or outdoor plant?

Fargesia murielae 'Rufa' does well both outdoors and indoors. 

The bamboo can grow to a height of 4m and spread over a diameter of 2.5 – 3m. The perfect height and spread of 2 - 3 metres make it a great plant for privacy screens and hedges.

The clump-forming bamboo is very adaptable, ideal for large pots, planters and containers. It can grow in the sun, part shade and shade.

5 Interesting facts

In addition to the unique features and qualities outlined in this article, we found these 5 facts to be interesting.

Do you know? This bamboo is

• native to China.
• a clump-forming bamboo.
• the main food source for the Giant Pandas.
• commonly called Dragon Head Bamboo or Chinese Fountain Bamboo.
• the recipient of the RHS Award of Garden Merits (AGM) for its finest qualities and noted as one of the best winterhardy plants.

Bamboo grow & care guide

We gave an in-depth insight into the running and clump-forming bamboos. The articles are packed with informational tips and step-by-step guides for bamboo growers. Here are the links!

• 1. How to propagate bamboos from seeds
• 2. How to propagate bamboos from culm cuttings
• 3. How to propagate bamboos from rhizome cuttings
• 4. See our latest Bamboo Growers Guides

If you find this article helpful, leave a comment and let us know what you think. And finally, we would appreciate it if you could follow us on our YouTube Channel - Amazing Bamboo Plants.

Fast-growing Plants for Shade Year Round

Bamboo screening is a great option for creating a cool and calm area in the garden.

Most bamboo plants are winterhardy and can also tolerate high temperatures and humidity.

The main concern for growing bamboo is the invasiveness of some species. But not all bamboo plants are invasive.

Use the non-invasive bamboo plants to create an ideal shaded area in the garden 

Non-invasive fast-growing bamboo

Fargesia, a modestly sized, 3-4 metre bamboo that is clump-forming, is an effective way of creating an instant cool corner.

Fargesia murielae and Fargesia robusta bamboo plants come in different sizes, shapes and colours. 

The common Fargesia bamboo plants are Fargesia nuda and Fargesia papyrifera. 

There are, in fact, hundreds of clump-forming bamboo cultivars that you can grow in the garden for shade and not have to worry about spreading. 

We documented over 50 of them here.

Common fast-growing climbing plants

Other shade-giving plants and vines are fast-growing, though most of them are deciduous. They lose their leave in spring.

Create pockets of shade with a trellis and a fast-growing climber like Jasmine Officinale, which also produces the most wonderful scent. 

Other fast growers are passion flowers or evergreen honeysuckle like Copper Beauty.

Grape vines, kiwis, and wisteria are fast growers, too, and look amazing grown up in a pergola.

List of fast-growing shade plants

Grow evergreen Fargesia bamboo for shade all year round or climbers and creepers for shade in summer.

Here is the list of the best fast-growing plants for creating shade.

• Bamboo plants (evergreen)
• Jasmine Officinale
• Passion flowers
• Copper Beauty (evergreen)
• Grape vines
• Kiwis
• Wisteria

For year-round plants for shade that are fast-growing, choose Fargesia bamboo and Copper Beauty.

Bamboo plants for Sale UK

The beautiful Secret Garden at Bleinheim Palace, Oxford, UK. Fargesia bamboo plants are featured in this garden for shade.

Group 1 and Group 2 Clematis for Shade

Clemantis come in different shades of pink, purple and white and they bloom througout the year. There are over 300 cultivars which are divided into three groups based on their flowering habits.

Generally, most clematis need atleast 6 hours of sunlight to produce strong foliage and healthy bloom.

But there are a number of clematis cultivars that thrive on walls and fences in heavy shade.

Common name: Clematis

Family name: Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae)

Native to: China and Japan

Buy clematis for north facing walls and fences 

 Group 1 & 2 Clematis for Shade

According to the RHS, the '[e]arly summer, twice-flowering types are particularly suited to a shadier position, as this can help to prevent premature fading of flower colour'. These are the Clematis in Groups 1 and 2 of the general classification.

The Group 3 Clematis tend to flower late in summer and early autumn are are not best for shade.

So, here are the 5 main groups of climber Clematis that grow well in shade. Each group may have more that one cultivar, so check the plant specification before buying it.

• Clematis alpina
• Clematis montana
• Clematis armandii
• Clematis macropetala 
• Clematis Crystal fountain

Does Clematis need full sun?

Generally, most clemantis prefer sun to produce healthy foliage and flowers. 

But cultivars from the 5 groups above are tolerant to shaded areas. They will thrive in shade and part shade.

Also these vine plants will need trellis support and protection to grow well onto walls and fences that are in the shade.

Plants that grow well in shade UK

Looking for shade-loving plants? we list the best shade plants that grow well in the UK, flowering plants, non-flowering plants and bamboo plants.

Check out this collection.

Epipremnum Aureum Devil's Ivy Plant UK

Epipremnum aureum widely known as the Devil's Ivy has many different variations that do well indoors and outdoors. The Devil's Ivy is hard to kill, it tends to adapt extremely well to different light variations from indirect indoor light and part-shade to heavy shade and direct light.

This fast-growing vine will thrive in pots and containers, perfect for both new and savvy plant lovers.

Common name: Pathos Plant, Money Plant, Devil's Ivy

Family name: Epipremnum aureum

Native to: the Pacific Islands (New Guinea & Solomon Islands)

Related plants: Dieffenbachia seguine, Philodendron hederaceum, Arrowhead Plant, Peperomia obtusifolia

Buy Epipremnum aureum

Other names include the Devil's vine, golden pothos, Ceylon creeper, hunter's robe, ivy arum, silver vine, Solomon Islands ivy, marble queen, taro vine

Easiest houseplant to grow

Epipremnum Aureum Devil's Ivy Plant is literally the easiest house plant to grow. They grow pretty long. Plant it in well-drained and humid soil and ensure that the soil remains conducive as it grows.

The vine blends into the background, making it one of the easiest plants to grow in small spaces such as windows and bathroom tops.

These lush trailing plants thrive in pots and containers and they are fantastic hanging houseplants.

All-rounder shade to sun plant

It grows well in bright indirect light and also tolerates dark areas. It has been found to be great at cleaning the indoor air of dust and stale air, an excellent air purifier.

Devil's Ivy plant can absorb water easily, which makes it ideal for bathrooms and rooms where moisture is high. 

Care

Epipremnum Aureum Devil's Ivy Plant is an undemanding low-maintenance plant, but it does not like waterlogged soil. Too much water will result in the roots rotting which can completely kill the plant.

Use a damp cloth clean the top layer of the leaves if you see specks of dust accumulating on them. When cleaning, avoid wiping the underside of the leaves as this can block the vital pores and affect the plant's happiness. 

For older plants, you may have to stake them using bamboo sticks or prune the tips to reduce further growth. Also, train the tip back into place for a dense screen cover.

Train the pothos plants up bamboo sticks for a neater look. Get the bamboo sticks here.

Propagate Devil's Ivy Plant

Epipremnum Aureum is such an easy plant to propagate - all you need is water and light.

Take cuttings from the vines, and at least two or three internodes from the tips of the plant. You can propagate the new cutting in water or straight into holding pots.

Keep the soil well aerated and moist until you see signs of new growth.

Then transplant it into larger holding pots and store it in a well-lit area away from direct sunlight.

Plants that grow well in shade UK

Looking for shade-loving plants? we list the best shade plants that grow well in the UK, flowering plants, non-flowering plants and bamboo plants.

Check out this collection.

Impatiens Busy Lizzie Grows Well in Shade

Impatiens 'Busy Lizzie' grows well in shade to part-shade and full sun. Impatiens' flowers are vibrant and come in different colours. They are useful for brightening up shady gardens, borders, baskets and containers.

Image credit: Meghan E. White @meghan_e_white/Twitter

Common name: Busy Lizzie

Family name: Impatiens 'New Guinea'

Native to: New Guinea

Buy: Impatiens 'Busy Lizzie'

Grow

Busy Lizzie blooms all year round. 

You can grow it in pots and containers or in the garden. It thrives in areas where there is plenty of water and shade. It will require regular watering when growing in sunny sites.

Care

This colourful plant is low-maintenance. It grows where you plant it until it flowers. Apart from watering, there is little to do in terms of care but to enjoy the bloom.

Propagate

Impatiens can be propagated from seeds or from stem cuttings. It takes a lot longer to grow them from seeds. If you are patient with the Impatiens, you'll get lots of plants from seeds.

The fastest way to get new plants is by stem cuttings. Choose a non-flowering stem with at least two leaf nodes and make a cut just below a node. 

Propagate the cuttings in water until rooting before planting in holding pots.

Alternatively, propagate the seed and stem cuttings in well-drained moist soil until they germinate.

Plants that grow well in shade UK

Looking for shade-loving plants? we list the best shade plants that grow well in the UK, flowering plants, non-flowering plants and bamboo plants.

Check out this collection.

Tradescantia Nanouk Pink Panther Tricolour Plant

Tradescantia Nanouk, also known as Fantasy Venice, is a special type of running plant that’s become a must-have for plant lovers. 

It has pink, white, purple, and green stripes patterns and also in tricolour variations on its lush leaves and along the slender stems. 

Common name: Tradescantia Nanouk Fantasy Venice

Family Name: Tradescantia albiflora ‘Nanouk’

Native to South America and New Guinea

Buy Tradescantia Nanouk plants

Shade-loving plant

It is a fantastic indoor plant because it needs little to thrive. 

It loves growing at the base of large trees and also a great ground cover where there is heavy shade.

If you want an indoor or garden plant for a shaded spot, this plant will not disappoint.

 Care

Too much light and dry soil can kill your Tradescantia Nanouk Fantasy Venice. Prevent this from happening by placing it away from direct sunlight and keeping the soil moist all the time.

If the leaves are dry and crispy at the edge, your plant is getting too much light or the soil is too dry.

Propagation

 Tradescantia Nanouk is a vigorous plant. It will grow from leaves and stem cuttings. 

The new cutting will need nutrient-rich soil, water and natural light to grow. Place it away from direct light.

You can propagate Tradescantia Nanouk in water before transplanting it into holding pots.

Plants that grow well in shade UK

Looking for shade-loving plants? we list the best shade plants that grow well in the UK, flowering plants, non-flowering plants and bamboo plants.

Check out this collection.

Brunnera macrophylla Shade-loving Plant

Plants that grow in shade are a bonus in the garden. One of these spectacular plants is the Brunnera macrophylla, aka Perennial Forget-Me-Not or Siberian Bugloss. 

It produces bright blue flowers atop broad green leaves. A fantastic shade plant that will bring out the best in any dark corner.

A wonderful blue for spring.

Common name/s: Perennial Forget-Me-Not, Siberian Bugloss

Family name: Brunnera macrophylla

Native to: Asia, Europe

Buy: Siberian Bugloss

This perennial flower is a low-maintenance plant, a good replacement for plants that are prone to slugs, bugs and diseases in spring as they are resilient plants.

Plants that grow well in shade UK

Looking for shade-loving plants? we list the best shade plants that grow well in the UK, flowering plants, non-flowering plants and bamboo plants.

Check out this collection.

Black Bat Flower Tacca Chantrieri Shade-loving Plants

Tacca chantrieri, the black bat flower, is a tropical plant that grows well in shade. The flowers are somewhat bat-shaped and have long 'whiskers'.

Tacca chantrieri (Dioscoreaceae) or 'Bat Flower' 

Common Names: Black Bat Flower, Cat's whiskers, Devil's flower

Family Name: Dioscoreaceae

Native to: Southeast Asia

BUY THIS PLANT HERE

The 15 species of Tacca chantrieri (Dioscoreaceae) or 'Bat Flower' range in form and colour, thought to have originated in Malaysia.

The 'whiskers' of the flowers are called bracteoles, which are thought to have evolved to resemble rotting organic matter to aid pollination, but some botanists thought it is a self-pollinated plant. 

The reason for these unsual whiskers is not clear.

Shade-loving plant

The bat plants are an excellent addition to any Gothic and tropical gardens, indoors, or as an understory plant where the area is heavily shaded.

Plants that grow well in shade UK

Looking for shade-loving plants? we list the best shade plants that grow well in the UK, flowering plants, non-flowering plants and bamboo plants.

Check out this collection.

Swiss Cheese Plant Likes Indoor Shade [Monstera deliciosa, Monstera adansonii, Monstera borsigiana, Monstera obliqua]

There are several cultivars of the Monstera species called Swiss Cheese Plants. These plants are common house plants because they thrive in shade.

They are fantastic indoor plants because of their high shade tolerance, low maintenance and undemanding.

The Swiss Cheese Plants (Monstera spp) have holes in the leaves that resemble Swiss Cheese, hence the name.

Here are some shade-loving plants that grow well in the UK. 

Monstera deliciosa Swiss Cheese Plant

Common name/s: Sweet Cheese Plant, Sweet Cheese Vine,  Five-Holes Plant, Monkey Mask Plant

Swiss Cheese Plants family: Monstera deliciosa, Monstera adansoni, Monstera borsigiana, Monstera obliqua

Native to: South-east Asia, South America and New Guinea

4 Types of Swiss Cheese Plant

There are several species of Swiss Cheese Plant. 

The four commonly plants are:

• Monstera deliciosa: This species has the largest leaves compared to the other Monstera plants, has broad perforated leaves. It produces white flowers that look like an arrowhead as seen in the image above.
• Monstera adansonii: This is a marginally large Monstera with ovate leaves and slightly bigger oval holes in them than Monstera deliciosa.
• Monstera borsigiana: This is a smaller form of Monstera deliciosa.
• Monstera obliqua: This Monstera resembles Monstera adansonii, but has thinner leaves with lots of holes in them.

Soil for growing Swiss Cheese Plant

Swiss cheese plants grow best in peat-based potting soil, which will help trap moisture in the soil without allowing it to become waterlogged.

How to propagate Swiss Cheese Plant

The Swiss Cheese Plant grows well by vine cuttings. Cut at least two or three nodes from the tip of the vine.

Propagate the cutting in water until rooting before potting. Ensure that the water does not go stale as this may kill the new plant. 

You may see signs of root and leaf growth after a few days. Transplant the cutting into a pot or hanging container. 

You can also plant the new cutting straight into a holding pot of moist, well-drained soil.

How to Care for Swiss Cheese Plant

The Swiss Cheese Plant is a tropical plant, native to Southeast Asia, New Guinea and South America, where temperature and humidity are high, yet the forest undergrowth receives little indirect light from the sun. And that is where Monstera species thrive.

They are great bathroom and windowsill plants. They are also fantastic hanging plants because warm air tends to circulate to the top making it conducive for them to thrive there.

The Swiss Cheese Plant is not winterhardy and does not really like cold.

They generally require very little care. The most crucial thing is to make sure they are warm and there is some light, but not direct light.

They love to climb, so get some bamboo-stick stakes for the plants to climb onto.

Best Dwarf Bamboo Plants to Grow in Shade, Patio, Driveway and Boundaries

Chinese dwarf bamboo plants are great undercover plants. 

Most of them prefer shade to part-shaded sites. 

They are ideal small bamboos for gardens and pots because they do not take up much space, and are less demanding and low-maintenance plants.

The Chinese Dwarf Bamboo Plants come in different sizes, shapes and colours. They make up less than 10 per cent of the bamboos that we feature on gardenbambooplants.com. 

So, what are the Chinese bamboo plants? 

This article is a fine collection of small bamboos that thrive in the UK.

5 Dwarf Bamboo Plants to Grow Undercovers

Here are 5 small bamboos to grow as undercover plants. These plants are chosen based on their shade tolerance.

Find out the best way to grow the small bamboo plants. 

1. Luca Dwarf Umbrella Bamboo

This clump-forming bamboo was the 2018 RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year contender. 

Luda is ideal for ground cover and pots because of its dense (umbrella) evergreen foliage low down on the ground.

2. Bambusa textilis ‘RG Dwarf’ (Weaver’s Bamboo Dwarf)

Do not be fooled by the name, this clumping bamboo can grow to 5 metres in height. 

Compared to the other Dwarf Bamboos the Weaver’s Bamboo is tall. 

3. Bimbo Dwarf Bamboo

Stunning clump-forming ornamental Dwarf Bamboo. 

Bimbo has thin green compacted leaves and short culms that form an ‘umbrella’ effect low on the ground. Ideal plant for short hedges, privacy screens, small gardens and confined spaces. 

A fantastic evergreen pot or container plant.

4. Fargesia nitida Jiuzhaigou Bamboo

The stems/culms of this spectacular clump-forming dwarf bamboo emerge green, turn deep red and mature to yellowish-orange. 

In fact, the change in colours is a response to the amount of light the stems receive.

5. Winter Joy

The Fargesia murielae ‘Winter Joy’ is a hybrid bamboo, cross between ‘Simba’ and ‘Dwarf Fountain’ Umbrella Bamboos. 

It has a distinct dark green culm (stem) with red overlays. 

Winter joy is hardy, evergreen and non-invasive.

Best for growing in the garden, or in pots and containers. 

Generally, the dwarf bamboo plants are ideal ground covers. 

They will thrive in part shade to shaded sites. Most of these plants are hardy and grow in cooler climates. 

If you want to add colour and greenery to your driveway or patio, these 5 bamboos are ideal candidates. 

They are also best planted in pot plants for apartments, porches, verandas and other outdoor areas that are in close proximity to the main buildings. 

Small Bamboo Plants for Shade

Bamboos are amazing plants, they come in different sizes, shapes and colours. Some are clumping whereas others are running. 

There are small bamboo plants for sale for almost any situation. Some small bamboo plants are best for shade.

Take a look at the best small bamboo plants for shade that thrive in the UK, US, NZ, Canada and Australia - follow the link to identify which one is best for you.

Uses of small bamboo plants

Bamboo plants are becoming a popular oriental plant and it’s easy to see why. Bamboos add an oriental touch to your garden and patio. They are hardy and come as either running or clumping bamboo.

Many small bamboo plants are ideal for garden hedges and undercover plants and they can thrive in shades.

In addition, they are undemanding plants and will grow well in the UK climate, great for 

• privacy screening, 
• hedging, 
• pot plants or 
• unique focal point in your garden.

What small bamboo plants to grow?

As gardeners, you’d want an ideal bamboo plant, one that provides the evergreen cover, low maintenance and is fast-growing.

We’ve researched nearly 100 running and clumping bamboos here at Garden Bamboo Plants. The heavy work is cut out for you so that you can use the summarised information to select the right bamboo.

The best thing to do is to check the top garden features of each bamboo and decide what’s ideal. 

To help you, here are Small Bamboo Plants for Shade.

You can buy the bamboos online too, see the UK retailers in the table below.

Best small bamboo plants for sale

Buy the small bamboo plants for sale online from the UK home and garden shops.

Rest assured that when you buy small bamboo plants online, you get the best service from UK-renowned retailers. 

They deliver the highest quality plants that are ready for planting upon arrival. 

You can get Fargesia clumping varieties or Phyllostachys running varieties.

How to select bamboo online

Use the article to find the best small bamboo plants for growing indoors or outdoors. Either way, this information will give you the confidence for growing bamboo and enjoy the greenery for many years.

As mentioned earlier, each article provides the insight you need to select the best small bamboo plants, which thrive in the UK. 

One of the best things listed in each article is the suggestions on how to use each bamboo plant.

Many of these plants have been used successfully as garden hedging and privacy screening plants. 

So check out the uses because it will give you an idea about growing it as garden plants or in pots and containers.

We hope that this article points you in the right direction, where you can find the best small bamboo plants to grow in pots or in the garden.

Astilbe perfect shade plants

There are over 20 species of Astilbe plants with striking plumages of small white, pink, or red flowers. 

Astilbe are shade-loving plants that thrive under heavy shades, are winter-hardy and tend to withstand damp soil. They are perfect for adding colours and vibrancy to the neglected parts of the garden.

Common name: False goat’s beard, false spirea, florist’s spirea

Official name: Astilbe

Native to: North America and Asia

Buy: Astilbe plants for sale UK

How to propagate Astilbe

Astilbe plants grow by root separation and propagation. These herbaceous perennials have rhizomes that remain active during winter and come to life in spring. 

They'll grow happily where the soil and moist. 

More great flowering plants that grow well in shade in the UK

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When do Astilbe Plants flower?

Astilbe plants are the most prolific shade flower you can grow in the garden or in pots and containers. Like ostrich plumes, the flowers are adorable and come in several colours.

Astilbe blooms depend on the cultivars but generally, they are late spring to late summer bloomers. The early blooming varieties emerge in spring, while late bloomers hold off until August. 

You can mix and match to get these gorgeous flowers blooming all season.

Does Astilbe Spread?

Some astilbe plants such as Astilbe Chinensis taquetti can gorw to 150 - 200 cm. Dwarf Chinese Astilbe is a relatively small plant which grows to 30 - 60 cm.

They grow in clumps (clusters) and do not spread away from the parent plant. They are easy to control, low-maintenance and undemanding plants. 

They tend to behave well and produce the most beautiful flowers.

Does Astilbe like sun or shade?

Astilbe are natural undercover plants that thrive in heavily forest canopies. They love the shade and a bit of indirect light to produce full blooms. 

Direct light can harm the leaves. 

Is astilbe a perennial?

Astilbe plants are herbaceous perennials that regenerate via underground roots. They will last the whole season, die down and put out new growth in spring.

Best Small Bamboo Plants for Small Gardens UK

 The Bamboo Garden at Kew Gardens London has an amazing collection of Chinese and Japanese bamboo. 

The garden holds over 130 different types of bamboo plants. In addition, the Tropical Glass House has three tropical giants.

Important: All the images are copyright materials covered under our Content Protection Notice. Contact us for more information.

 

Pleioblastus agenteostriatus Variegated Bamboo

It's a beautiful small running bamboo. 

This photo was taken in winter, the leaves have green and white stripes. 

In summer, these leaves are going to turn dark green contrasting beautifully with the whites. 

This spectacular variegated bamboo forms low patches with slender dark green culms to just 1 metre in height. 

The distinctive characters are in the green variegated leaves.

Pleioblastus agenteostriatus Variegated Bamboo

Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda

Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda or Walking Stick Bamboo is a running variety. 

It is large and can grow to 6 metres in the wild. 

Its culms are used as walking sticks for many centuries in China and Japan.

Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda

'Bamboo' Pleioblastus viridistriatus

Pleioblastus viridistriatus is a running variegated bamboo. 

It's perfect for gardening borders and privacy screening. 

It has beautiful purple-green culms for landscaping and adding colours to the garden. 

Check out other variegated bamboo plants.

'Bamboo' Pleioblastus viridistriatus

Sasa nipponica

Sasa nipponica is an evergreen small bamboo that can grow to 1 metre in height, hardy and evergreen. 

It has slim culms and is comparatively small compared to other bamboos. One of the best to grow in small gardens, driveways or as ground covers and undergrowth. 

This small bamboo is undemanding and thrives in the UK climate.

Sasa nipponica

Pleioblastus fortunei

Pleioblastus fortunei (or Pleioblastus pygmaeus or Dwarf Bamboo) is a small bamboo. 

There are two types, one has variegated leaves, and the other does not have variegated leaves. 

Pleioblastus fortunei 'Variegata' is the variegated cultivar whereas Pleioblastus pygmaeus or Dwarf Bamboo is not variegated bamboo. 

Check carefully if you are buying the Pleioblastus fortunei online.

Pleioblastus fortunei

Small Bamboo Garden Kew London

Kew’s Bamboo Garden is the best place to see magnificent bamboo plants. 

As mentioned, there are over 130 running and clumping bamboo plants. The giant timber bamboo is about 20 metres tall, reaching the top ceiling of the glasshouse. 

When you’re in Kew Gardens, this is definitely a must-see. These 13 bamboos are our top picks. We hope you like the images and videos. 

Please share on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter. We share bamboo gardening ideas, images and videos on YouTube. Join Us.

Facts about lucky bamboo plants [Draceana sanderiana]

Lucky bamboo plants do not belong to the real bamboo family, Poaceae. They are related to the tropical water lily plants, scientifically called Draceana sanderiana. 

Its other names include Chinese Water Bamboo and Friendship Bamboo. 

These plants are versatile monocots with succulent stalks, which are completely different from hollow bamboo canes. 

They are native plants to the tropical regions of the South Pacific, Southeast Asia and parts of West Africa; and grow abundantly near streams or natural water pools. 

The lucky bamboo plants thrive in water and that’s why they are one of the top houseplants. 

They are traditionally given as gifts, symbolising success, health, goodness and wealth.

1. How fast do lucky bamboo plants grow?

Lucky bamboo is a relatively fast-growing plant. It can grow to 8 cm in a month, reaching its maximum height in one year.

2. How tall does lucky bamboo grow?

Lucky bamboo can grow to about 100 cm and spread 20 cm. But it also depends on whether the bamboo is growing in water, gravel or soil. Other indoor conditions can also affect its growth.

3. How long do lucky bamboo plants live?

It’s hard to say but like other indoor plants, its longevity depends entirely on the care they receive. The indoor bamboo plants can live up to 5 years where conditions are the best. 

Also, your plants can live longer if you re-pot them from water to soil.

4. What to do if lucky bamboo leaves and stalks turn yellow?

Separate the affected plants and re-grow them. 

Is your lucky bamboo turning yellow? You can potentially lose it if you do not take immediate actions to save it. 

The article gives clear instructions on How to revive dying Lucky Bamboo Plants in 3 easy steps.

See the link below on how to revive lucky bamboo plant leaves turning yellow.

 

5. Can I grow lucky bamboo in soil?

Absolutely, you can grow lucky bamboo in soil. You can also grow them in gravel and water.

6. What is the best way to propagate lucky bamboo?

The best (and probably) the only way to grow lucky bamboo is by using the ‘cuttings’.

7. Is lucky bamboo poisonous to cats?

Lucky bamboo is poisonous to cats and other pets when ingested. So, keep it out of reach of pet animals.

8. How can I grow lucky bamboo in water?

For best results, use distilled water and clear glass vases to grow lucky bamboo. Read about the best ways to grow them.

9. What is the difference between ‘propagating’ and ‘growing’ lucky bamboo?

These terms are used interchangeably, but propagating lucky bamboo refers to the initial phase of getting the plants to root and put out leaves before planting. 

Whereas, ‘growing’ is often used when re-potting (planting) a lucky bamboo that has already been rooted.

10. What is the ‘one thing’ I must do when planting lucky bamboo?

The top tip is to use distilled water every time whether you are propagating or growing lucky bamboo or replenishing water.

Why is lucky bamboo popular?

Though lucky bamboo plants are poisonous to cats, they are becoming popular, and it is easy to see why. 

They are fantastic indoor plants, undemanding and adored by traditional gardeners in many parts of the world. Their vibrant shiny green colour is hard to miss. 

They are such happy plants. They’ll grow where you put them.

How to grow lucky bamboo indoor plants

How to grow lucky bamboo indoor plants: Lucky bamboo symbolises the beauty of life. Traditionally, it is a symbol of hope. Today, they are one of the great house plants you can grow.

This article gives insight into the best practices on how to grow lucky bamboo plants in water, soil and gravel.

10 Bamboo Facts You Should Know (CLICK HERE).

How to grow healthy lucky bamboo from cuttings?

Lucky bamboo plants are visually appealing in glass vases, cover pots and containers. Traditionally, the stalks are cultivated in groups of 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 21. 

Each group symbolises hope and well-being. It is bad luck if the stalks are not planted in these symbolic groups. Here are the three ways to grow healthy lucky bamboo plants.

1. Can lucky bamboo grow in water?

Reassuringly, lucky bamboo plants thrive in water and it’s clear to see why they are popular vase plants. Follow these steps to grow or re-pot the bamboo plants.

• Firstly, separate the stalks carefully, and avoid ripping the roots and leaves.
• Place the stalks in a clear glass vase. Space them out evenly.
• Then, add distilled water and plant food. Add plant rooting powder if available to promote root growth.
• Place the glass vase away from direct sunlight until fresh roots and leaves appear.
• Move the plants to the ideal site when they’ve shown signs of growth. Now, enjoy your plants.

Top tip: Use a clear glass vase to plant lucky bamboo in water and enjoy the roots as they emerge and find their way around it. Replace the water when it becomes saturated (unclear). Use less tap water because of the presence of chlorine which can kill your plant. Feed the lucky bamboo with plant food occasionally, at least twice a year.

2. Can lucky bamboo grow in soil?

Lucky bamboo grows pretty well in well-drained soil. So, use well-drained potting soil. This is probably the best medium for growing healthy lucky bamboo when re-potting the old plants or propagating new ones. 

Use pots that can hold the lucky bamboo with good spacing in between the stalks. 

Water regularly because potting soils are well-aerated and tend to lose water very quickly.

• Firstly, get some regular cover pots that have holes at the bottom, and fill them with well-drained potting soil.
• Separate the lucky bamboo plants neatly.
• Put 2, 3 or 5 in pots. Space them out evenly so that they stand upright.
• Then, add distilled water. Do not overwater.
• Place the potted plants in a shaded location, away from direct sunlight, until the plants have shown signs of growth.
• Finally, move them to a designated site indoors. Do not move the plants around regularly as the movements can damage the plants.

Top tip: Lucky bamboo plants are not fussy plants. But they dislike waterlogged soil. So, when growing lucky bamboo in soil, use well-drained potting soil and water regularly.

3. Can lucky bamboo grow in gravel?

Absolutely, lucky bamboo also thrives in gravels, pebbles and rock chips.

• Firstly, find a clear glass vase, and fill it with enough gravel so that it can completely cover the roots.
• Put 2, 3 or 5 lucky bamboo stalks in the vase, and space them out evenly so that they stand upright. Then, add distilled water until it reaches the top of the gravel.
• Then, place the glass vase in a shaded site until the roots are well established. (Avoid placing the new plants in direct sunlight)
• Finally, move the bamboo plants to the desired location after signs of growth are visible.

Top tip: Wash the gravel thoroughly before using it. You can also use plant rooting powder to promote root and leaf growth. Generally, lucky bamboo plants do occasionally require plants feed, not more than twice a year. They are undemanding and will thrive in indoor conditions.

Buy lucky bamboo plants for sale

Get quality plants from UK retailers online. 

Yellowing of leaves and stalks is a sign that the lucky bamboo plant is under stress because of one (or more) of the following limitations. 

The five limitations are the common causes of stress in lucky bamboo plants.

• 1. Lack of freshwater
• 2. Direct sunlight
• 3. Low indoor humidity
• 4. High indoor temperature
• 5. Rotting stalks

Your plants will be happy if you can identify (and improve) the five limitations that inhabit the growth of lucky bamboos. 

Check the linked article, we cover the best conditions for thriving bamboo plants, so that you can minimise the yellowing of leaves and stalks. 

Grow lucky bamboo indoor plants

All in all, lucky bamboo plants are not fussy about where they grow or what medium they grow in. They are undemanding plants and will happily thrive in water, soil or gravel. 

To help the bamboo plants enjoy a stress-free environment, create a conducive indoor atmosphere. 

We hope this article helps you to grow your lucky bamboo. 

If you have any questions, leave a comment below. We’ll be happy to help.