Himalayacalamus hookerianus aka Blue Bamboo

Himalayacalamus hookerianus is an evergreen bamboo. It belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Gardeners also call it blue bamboo or Padang. Its native range runs from Nepal to Assam. Records list eastern Nepal and western Bhutan. They also list Sikkim and West Bengal. It grows in cool forests of broad-leaved trees. These sites lie about 6,560–8,200 feet [2,000–2,500 metres] above sea level. Kew places this species in a temperate climate.

This bamboo grows fast and keeps its leaves year-round. It can reach 29.5 feet [9 metres] tall. Its canes can reach about 1.2 inches [3 centimetres] across. The nodes, or joints, have long spaces between them. This makes the stems useful for weaving. Sun brings out stronger colours in the stems. Yet bright light makes the leaves curl. In mild regions, a sheltered woodland garden suits this bamboo. It also grows well in dappled shade or at woodland edges.

Each flower has both male and female organs. Wind moves pollen from one flower to another. The plant may flower at intervals of about 50 years. Plants in British gardens have borne large crops of fertile seed. Reports from Kew and Edinburgh noted plants in flower in 1993. Growers can raise new plants from seed, though supplies are rare. Seeds can take one to eight months to sprout in warmth. Growers can also divide plants as new growth starts in spring.

Give this bamboo moist soil that does not dry out. It prefers good loam but accepts sand and clay soils. It grows in slightly acid, neutral, or slightly alkaline soil. Both drought and wet winters cause problems for the plant. Shelter it from cold winds from the north and east. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10. But it also warns of damage below about 21°F [−6°C]. Weigh local winter conditions against this broad zone range. The same source says the plant strongly resists honey fungus.

Older canes serve as material for baskets and woven mats. The plant can also hold soil on steep slopes. Its seeds are edible once cooked. Cooks can use them whole or mill them into cereal flour. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. That does not mean every use is safe. The plant's value lies in its year-round leaves and coloured stems. Its useful canes and ability to protect slopes add value too.