Phyllostachys bissetii aka Bamboo

Phyllostachys bissetii is an evergreen bamboo in the grass family. It comes from Sichuan and Zhejiang in China. Its native range lies in temperate Asia. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Chicago Botanic Garden lists it as David Bisset bamboo. This perennial has an upright form with dense growth. Its spreading habit matters when choosing a garden site.

Garden plants reach about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres] tall. They can also spread 13–26 feet [4–8 metres] wide. The RHS gives a maturity period of 10–20 years. Dark green canes form a dense, spreading clump. Sun-grown canes have a lighter colour. Narrow, lance-shaped leaves are mid-green and stay through winter. The upright stems and leafy growth suit hedges and screens. The RHS also suggests it for gardens with bold plant shapes. It lists this bamboo for subtropical-style planting schemes too.

Grow it in sun or partial shade. Choose soil that holds moisture but drains well. The RHS recommends reasonably fertile ground and a sheltered site. It lists chalk, clay and loam as suitable soils. Acid, neutral and alkaline conditions all fall within its range. Protect plants from cold, drying winds as they establish. The RHS rates its UK hardiness as H4. This covers minimum temperatures of 14–23°F [−10 to −5°C]. Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA zones 5–10. PFAF places it at woodland edges and in dappled shade.

Spread can become a problem where space is tight. The RHS warns of strong growth under favourable conditions. Use a large container or root barrier to limit spread. Remove dead or damaged stems as part of routine care. Thin some older canes to make the stems more visible. Divide plants in spring or autumn to raise new ones. The RHS reports few general pest or disease problems. These reports do not mean that problems can never occur.

PFAF records uses for both whole canes and split stems. Canes provide tool handles, while split pieces serve for weaving. It records no known edible or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards for this species. That does not establish that every part is safe to eat. The supplied evidence gives no details about flowers or fruit.