Big-Node Bamboo, Broom bamboo

Phyllostachys nidularia

Physical Characteristics

Phyllostachys nidularia is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 6 m (19ft) by 6 m (19ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. 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) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - N. and C. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked. Highly prized in China, both for their earliness and their delicate flavour[195], they taste somewhat like hominy corn[183]. Neither acrid nor bitter, even in the raw state. The shoots, which are about 4cm 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