Phyllostachys iridescens aka Cock Bamboo

Phyllostachys iridescens is a large evergreen bamboo in the grass family, Poaceae. It comes from temperate parts of eastern China. Its native range includes Anhui, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. It grows beside streams in its home range. In gardens, it forms a clump at first, then spreads. Its fast growth and tall canes give it a bold shape.

Plants reach about 26 feet [8 metres] tall. The RHS gives a garden height range of 26–39 feet [8–12 metres]. Mature plants can spread beyond 26 feet [8 metres] wide. They take around 10–20 years to reach full size. The upright green canes grow nearly 3 inches [0.07 metres] across. New shoots emerge dark red. As they mature, they develop yellow and yellow-green stripes. The mid-green leaves are narrow and taper to a point. They measure about 5–6 inches [0.12–0.15 metres] long. The leaves stay on the plant through winter.

Give this bamboo rich soil with plenty of humus. It needs moist ground that drains well. The RHS lists both clay and loam as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. Grow it in full sun or partial shade. A woodland edge with dappled light also suits it. Choose a sheltered spot away from cold, drying winds. The RHS rates it H5 for UK hardiness. For pots, use a peat-free compost based on loam. Feed container plants each month during the growing season.

This bamboo can form a tall hedge or screen. Its striped canes also make it a strong garden feature. The RHS lists patio and container planting among its uses. Allow room for its spread before choosing a site. Poor or dry soil may keep the clump more compact. Warm, moist conditions can let it spread enough to cause problems. Divide plants in spring to make new ones. Remove dead, weak or damaged canes in spring. Thinning helps reveal the stems. The RHS also advises removing flowering shoots as they appear. Slugs may harm new growth, but disease is seldom a problem.

Young shoots provide a cooked spring vegetable. PFAF describes boiling them with at least one water change. Harvest shoots when they stand about 3 inches [0.08 metres] above ground. Cut them about 2 inches [0.05 metres] below the soil. PFAF reports no known hazards, though this does not establish raw-shoot safety. It records no known medicinal uses. The mature culms also supply material for tool handles.