Kou-Chiku

Phyllostachys sulphurea viridis

Physical Characteristics

Phyllostachys sulphurea viridis is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). 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 dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - E. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - raw or cooked. Virtually free of acridity even when raw[195], they can be thinly sliced and eaten raw in salads but are usually boiled first[183]. The shoots 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