Sasaella ramosa

Sasaella ramosa is an evergreen bamboo in the grass family, Poaceae. Its common names include hairy bamboo and dwarf bamboo. It comes from Japan and grows in a temperate climate. Kew lists Honshu as its native range. Plants For A Future also lists Kyushu and Shikoku. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This fast-growing bamboo reaches about 3.3 feet (1 metre) tall. Its spread can reach 9.8 feet (3 metres). The leaves stay on the plant throughout the year. Even light frost can harm their edges. This damage leaves white margins but does not otherwise harm the plant. Its roots spread widely, so its low height can mislead gardeners. Plants For A Future describes it as very invasive. Those roots can also help hold soil on steep slopes.

It prefers partial shade and grows well in light woodland. Sites along woodland edges also suit it, including sunny edges. It can grow in full sun as well. Give it a loam rich in humus for best growth. It also tolerates sandy soils and heavy clay. Suitable soil pH ranges from mildly acid to mildly alkaline. It prefers moist ground and needs ample moisture during active growth. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 6–9. It also reports cold tolerance down to −22°C.

Flowers appear only after gaps of many years. Each flower has both male and female parts. Wind carries the pollen. Seed production takes much of the plant’s energy during flowering. The plant can then weaken, and some plants die. Plants left undisturbed will often recover after this decline. Seed is rarely available because flowering is so infrequent. The species shows strong resistance to honey fungus. The evidence gives no details of other pests or diseases.

Garden uses include woodland planting and soil support on slopes. Its spreading habit needs thought when choosing a site. Growers can raise plants from seed or divide established clumps. Sow fresh seed on the surface in a greenhouse near 20°C. Keep the compost from drying out. Germination can take three to six months. Divide plants in late spring as new growth starts. Use pieces with at least three canes. No edible or medicinal uses are recorded by Plants For A Future. That source lists no known hazards, but this does not establish food or pet safety.