Arundinaria gigantea aka Switchcane

Taxonomy

Genus Arundinaria Family Poaceae Order Poales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Arundinaria gigantea, also known as giant cane or river cane, is the only bamboo species native to the United States. It once grew in large colonies called canebrakes, covering thousands of acres in the southeastern region of the country. Today, these canebrakes are considered endangered ecosystems. The giant river cane is endemic to the south-central and southeastern parts of the United States, ranging from Texas to New York. Indigenous people found the plant to be economically and culturally important, using it as a vegetable and for construction and craft production. Bamboo is a common term for a large number of giant grass species used worldwide for various purposes, including building materials and paper production. There are two main types of bamboo: runners and clumpers. The switchcane, belonging to the Arundinaria genus, is a super rare houseplant that is not challenging to grow. It prefers well-draining soil and direct light, and is native to the Eastern Central and Southeastern United States.

Common names

Switchcane, Rivercane, Giant Cane, River Cane, Switch Cane

How to care for Switchcane

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Switchcane due to its easy-going nature.

Soil

Switchcane loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Switchcane thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Giant Cane.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

The Switchcane is a clump-forming species, with new growth originating from the soil surrounding the main plant.

Region of origin

Switchcane’s native range is Southeastern N. America - Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Oklahoma to North Carolina, Florida and Texas.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Arundinaria Genus

Arundinaria tecta Arundinaria Tecta

Arundinaria gigantea Switchcane