Chusquea quila aka Argentinian Quila

Chusquea quila is an evergreen bamboo from southern South America. Its native range covers parts of Argentina and Chile. Records include Neuquén in Argentina, plus central and southern Chile. In Chile, its range reaches about 47 degrees south. Plants For A Future lists Argentinian quila as a common name. It belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. It keeps its leaves through the year. The reported garden size is about 16 feet (5 metres) tall. Its spread reaches about 8 feet (2.5 metres).

This bamboo suits woodland gardens and their edges. Suggested sites include dappled shade and the sunnier woodland edge. It can also grow along a shady edge. Its year-round foliage gives these sites a lasting green presence. The flowers have both male and female organs. Wind carries the pollen between flowers. The evidence gives no set flowering season. Seed is rarely available, which limits seed-based propagation. The canes have uses beyond the garden. People use them for musical instruments, simple furniture, and fences.

Choose moist soil with plenty of humus for cultivation. An open loam of fair quality suits it well. It also grows well in peat, according to cultivation reports. The listed soil range includes sand, loam, and clay. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. Give it ample moisture during the growing season. Once established, plants can cope with drought. Shelter from cold north and east winds is advised. Reports differ on its tolerance of winter cold. One gives a minimum near 5°F (−15°C). Another limits outdoor planting to milder parts of Britain. Reported outdoor success includes Edinburgh Botanic Garden and Kew. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 6–9.

Sow ripe seed on the surface in a greenhouse. Keep it near 68°F (20°C), and keep the compost moist. Germination may be quick, but can take three to six months. Grow seedlings in light shade until large enough to plant out. Spring division is another option, though the source calls it difficult. Each division should retain at least four canes. Avoid disturbing the parent plant's roots more than needed. Cook young shoots before eating them. The source also lists stems among the edible parts. It records no known hazards or medicinal uses. That hazard statement does not establish safety for every person or pet.