Greenwax golden bamboo

Phyllostachys viridiglaucescens

Physical Characteristics

Phyllostachys viridiglaucescens is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 6 m (19ft) by 7 m (23ft). 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). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - E. China in Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[61, 105, 177]. Virtually free of acridity even when raw[195], they are eaten in salads or added to soups etc[183]. The shoots on mature clumps can be 40mm or more in diameter[K]. Another report says the shoots are acrid when raw. 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