Black Bamboo

Phyllostachys nigra is a dramatic Black Bamboo which is native to Central and Eastern China. Bamboo is evergreen, producing a multi-stemmed display of both stems and foliage all year round. 

The canes emerge green before further turning brown and then black with age. Usually, this takes up to 3 seasons.

The foliage is lance-shaped and bright green, which contrasts attractively with the dark-coloured stems.

Phyllostachys nigra is often planted as a hedge as it readily tolerates very hard pruning and grows with vigour. 

Whilst it is less vigorous than its Golden counterpart, it is still considered a fast grower and will tolerate tough pruning, potentially down to 5cm from ground level in spring to encourage a fresh display of growth. 

This also has the benefit of managing the plant's size and width, as in domestic gardens, this tree can quickly get out of hand.

Black Bamboo will tolerate most soil conditions that are well drained and do best in a sunny position. 

This multi-stemmed tree is best planted where space allows. Although it is not a tall specimen at maturity, it is vigorous and has the capacity to spread earnestly. 

It makes a good screen along a boundary and should not be planted near buildings or foundations.

Mature Height: 3-5m

Common names

Black Bamboo

Height of tree

3-5m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Multi-stemmed

Foliage Colour

Green

Looks good in

Winter

Location

Garden, Parkland

Genus

Phyllostachys