Phyllostachys arcana

Phyllostachys arcana, or half-black bamboo, is an evergreen bamboo. It belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Its native range lies in central and southern China. Records include Anhui, Gansu, Jiangsu, Shaanxi, Sichuan, and Zhejiang. It grows in a temperate climate and keeps its leaves year-round. Plants reach about 20 feet [6 metres] in height. The available evidence gives no mature spread.

This bamboo suits woodland gardens and sites with dappled shade. It also grows in full sun or along shaded edges. Its shallow roots allow planting near deep-rooted trees. Give it rich, moist soil and shelter from cold winds. It accepts sandy soil, loam, and clay. It also tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline ground. These choices give gardeners a broad range of planting sites. Moisture and shelter remain key parts of its care.

Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 7–10. It reports cold tolerance between 14 and 23°F [-10 to -5°C]. It also warns against planting in colder parts of Britain. Protect the plant from long spells of frost. Flowers appear only after gaps of many years. Each flower has both male and female organs. Wind carries the pollen. Seed production can leave the plant weak, and some plants die. Plants that survive may recover when left undisturbed. The source also reports resistance to honey fungus.

Young shoots provide an edible crop when cooked. Harvest takes place in spring, while the shoots remain short. The source describes shoots about 1.2 inches [3 centimetres] thick. It recommends cutting when they rise 3 inches [8 centimetres] above ground. The cut sits about 2 inches [5 centimetres] below ground. Hard canes serve as tool handles and supports for bamboo items. People also use them for mats and lanterns. No medicinal uses or known hazards are listed.

Propagation uses seed or spring division as growth begins. Seed is scarce and needs moist compost under greenhouse conditions. Sow it on the surface at about 68°F [20°C]. Germination may be quick, but can take three to six months. Keep seedlings in light shade until ready for planting. Lifted divisions need careful care because they transplant poorly. Wet weather helps with division, and small pieces establish more readily.