Phyllostachys vivax Huangwenzhu - Golden Chinese Timber Bamboo

The Phyllostachys vivax Huangwenzhu is a very bright and particularly elegant form of a Giant Bamboo that inhabits temperate forests in Asia. Majestic, with a wide and spreading habit, it produces canes as wide as poles that will maintain a beautiful bright green colour enhanced by yellow stripes throughout their lives and carry evergreen foliage that sings in the wind. The strong and rampant growth of this vigorous bamboo allows it to quickly establish a bamboo forest, or an effective privacy screen, in summary, a very pleasant and highly exotic plant!

Originating from China and Japan, belonging to the family of poaceae (or grasses), the Phyllostachys vivax Huangwenzhu is a strong and vigorous bamboo with very spreading rhizomes. The plant has an erect habit, with slightly drooping leafy branches. It develops canes or stems of 6 to 8cm (3.1in) in diameter fairly brittle and not very resistant to strong winds. They are capable of growing several centimetres per day to reach a height of 7 to 12m (39.4ft). Each cane is ridged, light green in colour, with internodes crossed along their entire length by a beautiful yellow stripe. The evergreen foliage consists of medium-sized, fairly wide dark green leaves. Perfectly hardy, it can withstand temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F). However, in case of snowfall, remember to shake off the canes to prevent them from bending and breaking at ground level.

The undisputed star of Asian-inspired gardens, giant bamboo suits many styles, from the most contemporary to the most exotic, including natural gardens and water gardens. When planted en masse, it quickly creates very exotic forests, bringing a vertical aspect to the scene. Its rapid growth makes it an excellent candidate for hiding an unsightly view, especially when planted in fertile and moist soil. It can also be planted as a standalone specimen. In mixed planting, its unique style can sometimes be difficult to match. Try combining it in an exotic setting with other giants like Gunnera manicata or Hosta Big Daddy, or certain palm trees in a more well-drained soil. Bamboos blend well together, so choose varieties with differently coloured canes. They are always perfect near water features. A large pathway lined on both sides with Huangwenzhu giant bamboo will simply become a royal avenue.

The young shoots of this bamboo are edible and highly prized by gastronomes. However, it is necessary to boil them for a long time to soften them before eating.