Yellow Bamboo - Phyllostachys aureosulcata Aureocaulis

Phyllostachys aureosulcata 'Aureocaulis', also known as yellow bamboo, is an exceptional variety with particularly bright yellow culms that turn pink or red in the sun, forming a wonderful contrast with its shiny dark green foliage. Spreading and fast-growing, it quickly forms a permanent curtain in the background of a flower bed, a pretty clump in isolation, or a striking composition in a large container on the terrace.

The yellow bamboo belongs to the Poaceae family. It has an elegant, columnar and dense habit. It can reach 6 m to 8 m (20 ft to 26.2 ft) in height at maturity, sometimes even reaching 10 m (33 ft). Its growth is fast and it will reach its maximum size after 5 to 6 years of cultivation. Its shiny evergreen leaves are dark green with a bluish underside, and measure about 15 cm to 17 cm (6.3 in to 6.7 in) in length. The culms sometimes grow in a zigzag pattern at the base. They are bright yellow, sometimes striped with green near the base, and eventually turn pink or light red in the sun. Their diameter reaches 3 cm to 4 cm (1.2 in to 1.6 in). Groves and planting schemes formed of culms of different ages will present a varied but well-coordinated look. This variety is capable of covering an area of 20 square metres in 10 years.

Phyllostachys aureosulcata 'Aureocaulis' is a magnificent bamboo. However, it spreads quickly and broadly so requires a lot of space. It will grow happily in a hedge, in a group or even in a large container as it tolerates pruning very well. This bamboo will provide a beautiful display at the edge of a water feature, in the company of a low-maintained white willow or a Gunnera manicata. However, be careful to channel its rhizomes with a rhizome barrier. The cut stalks make sturdy and elegant stakes. On a terrace, it can be planted with sacred bamboo and banana trees to recreate an exotic atmosphere.