With its dark stalks, the black bamboo is extremely decorative. This term usually refers to the Phyllostachys nigra, which is also traded under the name "black-tailed bamboo". This bamboo does form rhizomes, but they are manageable.
If black bamboo is grown in the garden, a rhizome barrier should be laid
There is also the Fargesia nitida "Black Pearl", which is one of the bamboo varieties that do not form rhizomes. Fargesia grow in clumps and do not spread as uncontrollably as the various species of Phyllostachys.
Which species is suitable for my garden?
In principle, you can choose a bamboo with black stalks according to your preferences. However, the different species also have different needs in terms of planting or care. The Phyllostachys nigra prefers a sunny to semi-shady location while the black garden bamboo, which is also known as the Fargesia nitida with black culms, prefers semi-shady or even shady.
If you want a particularly large bamboo, then the Phyllostachys nigra might be the bamboo of your choice. It grows up to 10 meters high and is hardy to about - 16 °C or - 20 °C. Install a rhizome barrier right away when planting, then your bamboo will not overgrow the entire garden uncontrollably. Otherwise it is difficult to remove.
After an eventual flowering, which is to be expected in this species about every 40 years, a Phyllostachys does not die off, in contrast to the bamboo fargesia. But this species only blooms every 80 to 100 years. The Fargesia are the most frost-tolerant bamboo species. They are hardy down to - 25 °C.
The most important thing about Phyllostachys nigra:
- forms rhizomes
- grows to a height of approx. 5 - 10 m
hardy between - 16 °C and - 20 °C
- preferred location: sun or semi-shade
- does not die after flowering
The most important thing about Fargesia nitida "Black Pearl":
- grows clump-like, so does not form rhizomes
- grows to a height of approx. 3 - 4 m
- hardy to - 25 °C
- preferred location: partial shade or shade
- dies after flowering
tips
If you do not want to build a rhizome barrier or if you are looking for a clump-like growing bamboo, then choose a black garden bamboo.