Violet Bamboo

Phyllostachys praecox

Physical Characteristics

Phyllostachys praecox is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 6 m (19ft 8in). 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 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 flavour[266]. This is one of the first species to be ready to eat in the spring, the young shoots are usually boiled in at least one change of water. The shoots, which are 4 - 6cm 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