Burmese bamboo, Jama Betua

Bambusa polymorpha

Physical Characteristics

Bambusa polymorpha is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 12 m (39ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. The flowers are pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Southeast Asia - northeastern India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Edible Uses: Edible portion: Shoots. The young shoots are edible but are reputed to taste very bitter[ 310 ]. The plant yields excellent sweet shoots, but sometimes they are regarded as bitter[ 317]. The young shoots are harvested as they emerge from the soil.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known