Phyllostachys iridescens

Physical Characteristics

Phyllostachys iridescens is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 5 m (16ft 5in). 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 full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China in Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked. A delicious spring vegetable, they are usually boiled in at least one change of water. The shoots, which are 4 - 7cm in diameter[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