Spectabilis bamboo

Most of the bamboos are shooting now, and I've certainly posted photos of the beautiful shoots in the past. Today though, just a quick look at a single species, and how well it's doing for me.

It's Phyllostachys aureosulcata 'Spectabilis', and it definitely is spectacular!

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I've only had it in my garden since 2008, but the plant I got from Needmore Bamboo was a good one, as this has quickly matured. It only produced a couple thinner shoots that first year, then quickly started putting out the thick ones. I gave this one the most space of all of my bamboo plantings, and I'm glad I did!

In 2008, just planted

2013, from a different angle, but making a big impact in the garden

If you're seen bamboo growing in the St. Louis area it's most likely "Yellow Groove" bamboo, with green culms that have a yellow stripe in the groove ("sulcus"). 'Spectabilis' is the same species, but a different form -- a different variety. It has yellow culms with green in the sulcus, and other green stripes. It's almost as cold-hardy as Yellow Groove, but has a bit more impact. Lots more color, especially when shooting and the culm sheaths first fall away.

This is a great bamboo!

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