Phyllostachys flexuosa -Sinuate Bamboo

Phyllostachys flexuosa is an extremely ornamental medium-sized bamboo. Its flexible habit allows it to form spreading clumps, with the tops of the culms appearing to bend under the weight of the delicate foliage. It grows rapidly, forming thin canes that are green to yellow in color depending on sunlight, always very decorative. While most Phyllostachys prefer neutral to acidic soils, P. flexuosa has the interesting characteristic of tolerating limestone. Even more surprising, it can even withstand salt spray and slightly salty soils, making it perhaps the most well-suited species for coastal areas. In addition to being very accommodating, it is very hardy and tolerates dry conditions quite well.

This bamboo belongs to the Poaceae, or Grasses, family. While some species can reach heights of tens of metres and form culms as hard as wood, they are not trees, but rather grasses. There are over a thousand species, distributed on all continents except Antarctica.

Phyllostachys flexuosa is native to central China, where it grows in different provinces of Henan, Shaanxi, and Hubei. It is a medium-sized species that generally reaches 4 to 6m (13 to 20ft) in height, with a width of 2 to 3m. Aesthetically, its uniqueness lies in its particularly graceful and flexible habit, as its species name suggests. This bamboo is indeed extremely flexible, with the culms arching at their tips, forming beautiful clumps that resemble a vegetal fireworks display. The foliage is a lovely green, quite bright and dense, forming ample draperies that undulate in the wind. The culms have a diameter of 2 to 4cm (1 to 2in) and their colour depends on sunlight: in partial shade, they are green, while in full sun, they turn yellow. In any case, they are very decorative, both in terms of their colour and the delicate curves they form as they bend in their upper half.

Easily identifiable by its flexible habit, this species is also distinct from others in terms of its cultural characteristics. Phyllostachys generally require a neutral to acidic soil, remaining moist (but well-drained) to thrive, which limits their use somewhat. This one will interest owners of limestone soils, as it adapts well to these growing conditions. It is also very suitable for coastal areas, as it tolerates salt spray and even slightly salty soils. Similarly, it tolerates drought better than others, which is not surprising given that the physiological adaptation mechanisms are similar to those for limestone or salt tolerance.

Rather indifferent to soil type, this Phyllostachys grows equally well in full sun or partial shade, for example at the edge of large trees. It is not afraid of wind and withstands cold temperatures very well, as it can endure freezes down to -23°C (1°F). Only excessive water in poorly drained soil is harmful to it, as is the case for most other species (except P. heteroclada). This bamboo is therefore extremely adaptable and can be planted in almost any garden. Although it spreads moderately, it is still advisable to limit its spread in small areas with a rhizome barrier, which should encircle the clump and extend about ten centimetres above the soil surface.

Being well-suited to pruning, this bamboo can potentially be planted as a hedge, but it is in clumps or as a standalone plant that it will provide the most beautiful spectacle. Its beauty lies in its arching habit, so it would be a shame to trim it when there are other species that are naturally more upright and better suited for hedge formation. The cascading foliage will be perfect for creating a Japanese scene. Thus, in mild coastal climates, it can be associated with Pittosporum tobira, an evergreen shrub with white flowers emitting a sweet fragrance, which is also resistant to salt spray. In colder regions, Trachycarpus fortunei, or Windmill Palm, with its sturdy trunk covered in fibres, will also be a perfect companion for creating an Oriental atmosphere. And to add colour to this range of green, nothing beats a Japanese flowering cherry tree like the famous Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan', always appreciated for its multitude of double pink flowers in spring and its beautiful autumnal colours.