BAMBUSA VENTRICOSA

Buddha Bamboo’

FAMILY: Bambusa

USES: Provides a strong tropical effect. Its swollen internodes are its main distinguishing feature. Does well in Japanese gardens, in silhouette, as a specimen or screen plant. Looks good near ponds, water features, in courtyards and entrance areas.

SIZE: Grows 3 – 8m tall depending on planting methods. Slow growing.

LOCATION: Full sun to partial shade. Does well in coastal areas with some protection from direct sea wind. Not so good in the hot, dry desert regions.

SOIL: Best in an organically enriched free draining fertile soil with a pH 5.6 – 6.5, acidic to mildly acidic. Will show leaf chlorosis if soil is too alkaline or saline.

FERTILISER: Apply a slow release 14:14:14 NPK every six months. A greedy plant. Apply additional N every two months if you want to push growth.

WATER: Keep soil moist. Not very drought tolerant. However does not accept over irrigation or waterlogging.