Reddish bamboo

Phyllostachys rubromarginata

Physical Characteristics

Phyllostachys rubromarginata is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 8 m (26ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. 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 - China in Zhejiang and Guangxi.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[195]. They have a small degree of acridity when raw but this is removed if they are boiled in water, they are then eaten in salads etc[183]. The shoots, which are about 35mm 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