Hi all,

Does anyone have this bamboo in CA? I was wondering how much you'd water this plant in summer, if at all. Also does anyone have tips with the division of this plant? I'm trying to get a division off my friend, but the division would always die.

I HAD one at a previous home that got watered regularly and did great. San Marcos Nursery gives it a 'moderate' watering needs, so would have to be watered at least once a week in Yuba County. I never tried to divide it, so I can't help there.
One of the most beautiful bamboos. I'd love to have one again.

Hi John,

Thank you for your reply! Did your bamboo have any shelter from the sun at all? Did the leaves on the bamboo close up if you don't water it for a long time?

It was in full sun in Riverside and yes, it did fold its leaves when it was dry.

Thanks John! Did/do you grow any other bamboos?

No, that's the only one I've grown. I do work with Giant Timber bamboo on campus. As the name implies, it's a monster. We have it in several places and the masses of leaves are a lot of work to clean up all the time. It also can tear up concrete and move boulders.

That's cool! Is it Bambusa oldhamii? How tall do you think it is? Is it watered in summer at all? I'm thinking about using it as a hedge but I'm not sure if I can handle how vigorous it is. How do you keep it from spreading everywhere? Just cutting the young shoots back?