Chishima Zasa

Sasa kurilensis

Physical Characteristics

Sasa kurilensis is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). 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 - Japan, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[177]. They are so popular in Japan that a license is required in order to collect them[183]. Seed - used as a cereal[177]. The seed is only produced at intervals of many years.

Medicinal Uses

Cancer A potential cure for cancer has been discovered in the leaf[195].

Known Hazards

None known