How tall bamboo plants grow

Bamboo plants are a popular choice for landscaping and gardening in the UK, as they are hardy, fast-growing, and versatile. However, many people are curious about how tall bamboo plants can grow in the UK, and whether they will be able to accommodate them in their gardens.

Height of bamboo plants

The height of bamboo plants depends on a variety of factors, including the species of bamboo, the growing conditions, and the amount of maintenance provided. 

In general, tall bamboo plants can grow anywhere from 6 metres feet to over 20 metres tall in the UK. However, most bamboo species grown in the UK will typically reach heights of between 6 and 10 metres.

Tall bamboo plants in the UK

One of the most popular bamboo species grown in the UK is Phyllostachys bambusoides, also known as the "Golden Bamboo". This species can grow up to 20 metres tall, with sturdy, straight canes that are typically about 5 centimetres in diameter. 

Another popular tall bamboo is Phyllostachys aurea, also known as the "Fishpole Bamboo". This species can grow 6 - 10 metres tall, and its canes are slightly thinner than those of the Golden Bamboo.

Another tall bamboo worth the mention is Bambusa multiplex, also known as the "Hedge Bamboo or Alphonse Karr Bamboo" which can grow to 10 metres tall, and is known for its tight clumping habit, making it a great choice for hedging or screening.

Check out our comprehensive collection of tall bamboo plants that grow in the UK - click here

Bamboo plants grow taller in warmer climates

Bamboo plants will grow much taller in warmer climates, such as in Southern China and Southeast Asia where they are native. 

In the UK, bamboo plants will typically grow more slowly, and will not reach their full potential in terms of height. 

However, this can be a benefit for gardeners who want to keep their bamboo plants at a manageable size.

Control bamboo height

To promote healthy growth and prevent your bamboo from getting too tall, it is important to provide adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients to your plants. 

Bamboo plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and they should be fertilised regularly with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser. Additionally, bamboo plants should be pruned regularly to remove old, yellowing canes, and to encourage new growth.

In closure

Bamboo plants can grow to a wide range of heights in the UK, depending on the species, the growing conditions, and the amount of maintenance provided. 

The most common species grown in the UK will typically reach heights of between 20 and 40 feet, and with proper care, they can make a beautiful and unique addition to any garden. 

However, it is important to consider the potential height of your bamboo plants before planting them, and to be prepared to prune and maintain them as needed to keep them at a manageable size.

Alphonse Karr bamboo Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr'

Alphonse Karr bamboo (Bambusa multiplex 'Alphonse Karr') is a beautiful bamboo species that is native to Asia. It is known for its striking yellow and green striped culms, which can grow up to 9 metres tall and 5 centimetres in diameter. 

This bamboo species is popular among gardeners and landscapers for its ornamental value, as well as its ability to provide privacy and shade.

Alphonse Karr bamboo is its striking appearance

One of the most notable features of Alphonse Karr bamboo is its striking appearance. The culms are a combination of yellow and green stripes, which give the plant a unique and eye-catching look. 

Its leaves are also green, but are slightly smaller than those of other bamboo species. The leaves are arranged in a feathery pattern, which adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant.

Alphonse Karr bamboo is also known for its hardiness and durability. It is a fast-growing species, which makes it ideal for privacy screens and hedges. 

Where to buy Alphonse Karr bamboo in the UK

We work with some of the well-known bamboo suppliers in the UK. The suppliers sell both running bamboo and clump-forming bamboo plants. You can buy them bamboo plants online or in-store.

Check your local garden centre to find out if they sell any Alphonse Karr bamboo.

One place we recommend checking online is Crocus UK. They have a great collection of bamboo plants to choose from.

Also, here is the list of 5 bamboo suppliers in the UK. We do not work with them, but we found them to be also best in the business.

Uses

Alphonse Karr bamboo can also be used as a windbreak or to provide shade in a garden or outdoor living space. The culms are strong and sturdy, which makes them resistant to damage from wind or heavy snow. 

It is relatively low maintenance, making it a great choice for busy gardeners and homeowners. Here are the top 6 ways to use this stunning bamboo:

1. Privacy screens and hedges: The fast-growing nature of Alphonse Karr bamboo makes it a great choice for creating privacy screens and hedges in gardens and outdoor living spaces.
2. Windbreaks: Its strong and sturdy culms make it an effective windbreak, helping to protect other plants in the garden from strong winds.
3. Shade: The tall culms and feathery leaves provide ample shade, making it a great option for gardens and outdoor living spaces that receive a lot of sun.
4. Ornamental: Alphonse Karr bamboo is a striking and beautiful plant, with its unique yellow and green striped culms and feathery leaves, making it a great ornamental plant for any garden.
5. Bamboo groves: This bamboo can be planted in large groupings to create a bamboo grove, providing an exotic and tropical feel to a garden.
6. Bamboo fences: The canes of Alphonse Karr bamboo can be used to create natural, eco-friendly fences. They are durable, lightweight and can be plated in a row, to create a barrier for the garden or for privacy.

Care

In terms of care, Alphonse Karr bamboo is relatively easy to maintain. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can be grown in full sun or partial shade. 

The plant prefers well-draining soil and regular watering. However, it can tolerate drought conditions once it is established. 

Fertilizing is not necessary, but you can use a slow-release fertilizer to promote growth. 

Alphonse Karr bamboo is also relatively pest and disease resistant, which helps to keep maintenance to a minimum.

Alphonse Karr bamboo is non-invasive

One of the most common concerns with bamboo is its tendency to spread and become invasive. However, Alphonse Karr bamboo is considered a non-invasive species, which means it is less likely to spread and take over a garden or landscape. 

Also, because it is a clumping bamboo, it is less likely to spread via underground rhizomes. This makes it a great choice for gardeners who want to enjoy the beauty of bamboo without worrying about it becoming a problem.

Here are 12 characteristics of Alphonse Karr Bamboo:

1. Striking yellow and green striped culms
2. Can grow up to 30 feet tall and 2 inches in diameter
3. Feathery green leaves
4. Fast-growing, making it ideal for privacy screens and hedges
5. Resistant to damage from wind or heavy snow
6. Low maintenance
7. Tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can be grown in full sun or partial shade
8. Preferred well-draining soil and regular watering
9. Pest and disease resistant
10. Non-invasive, clumping bamboo species
11. Can add a unique and exotic touch to any garden or landscape
12. Can bring beauty and elegance to any outdoor space for many years to come.

Overall, Alphonse Karr bamboo is a beautiful and versatile plant that can add a unique and exotic touch to any garden or landscape. It's striking yellow and green striped culms, combined with its hardiness and durability, make it a great choice for privacy screens, hedges, windbreaks, and shade.

Its non-invasive nature and low maintenance requirements make it a great choice for busy gardeners and homeowners. 

With proper care, Alphonse Karr bamboo can bring beauty and elegance to any outdoor space for many years to come.