Zig-Zag Bamboo, Drooping timber bamboo

Phyllostachys flexuosa

Physical Characteristics

Phyllostachys flexuosa is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 6 m (19ft) by 6 m (19ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[25, 61, 105, 177]. A delicious flavour[266]. Slightly acrid raw, they are usually boiled in at least one change of water and added to salads etc[183]. The canes are about 10mm in diameter[K]. The shoots, which are generally 2- 4cm in diameter, though occasionally up to 7cm[266], are harvested in the spring when they are about 8cm above the ground, cutting them about 5cm below soil level.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known