PHYLLOSTACHYS nigra

Common name: Black Bamboo, Black Stemmed Bamboo

Family: Poaceae

Origin: Asia

Description: Plant in sun where culms colour quickly turning a polished ebony black. Prune lower branches, and thin weak growth regularly

Uses: Ideal for hedging

Climate/Position: Full sun in a sheltered site

Height/Spread: Slowly makes a dense clump up to 3.5 metres

Soil Requirements: Grow in a fertile, well-drained soil. Will tolerate alkaline soil, Shelter from cold winds

Pruning: Prune lower branches, and thin weak growth regularly

Special Requirements: If space is limited or to stop the spread of the bamboo, then it is best to plant in a large container or surround the roots with a non-perishable barrier, such as Bamboo Control System, that restricts the plant's spread