With its dark stalks, the black bamboo is extremely decorative. This term usually refers to Phyllostachys nigra, which is also known as “black-throated bamboo”. This bamboo does form rhizomes, but they are manageable.
Does black bamboo form rhizomes?
The black bamboo Phyllostachys nigra forms rhizomes, but they are manageable. To prevent uncontrolled growth, a rhizome barrier is recommended. Fargesia nitida “Black Pearl”, on the other hand, grows like a clump and does not form rhizomes, so a barrier is not necessary.
There is also Fargesia nitida “Black Pearl”, which is one of the bamboo varieties that does not form rhizomes. Fargesias grow like clumps and do not spread as uncontrollably as the various species of Phyllostachys.
Which species is suitable for my garden?
In principle, you can choose a bamboo with black stalks based on your preferences. However, the different species also have different needs when it comes to planting or care. The Phyllostachys nigra prefers a sunny to partially shaded location while the black garden bamboo, as the Fargesia nitida with black stalks is also called, prefers partially shaded or even shady conditions.
If you would like to have a particularly large bamboo, then Phyllostachys nigra may be the bamboo of your choice. It grows up to 10 meters high and is hardy to around -16°C or -20°C. If you install a rhizome barrier (€78.00 on Amazon) when planting, then your bamboo will not uncontrollably overgrow the entire garden. Otherwise it is difficult to remove again.
After a possible flowering, which is to be expected with this species about every 40 years, a Phyllostachys does not die, in contrast to the bamboo fargesia. However, this species only flowers every 80 to 100 years. Fargesias are the most frost-tolerant bamboo species. They are hardy down to -25 °C.
The most important thing about Phyllostachys nigra:
- forms rhizomes
- will be approx. 5 – 10 m high
hardy between – 16 °C and – 20 °C
- preferred location: sun or partial shade
- does not die after flowering
The most important thing about Fargesia nitida “Black Pearl”:
- grows like a clump, so it does not form rhizomes
- will be approx. 3 – 4 m high
- hardy to – 25 °C
- preferred location: partial shade or shade
- dies after flowering
Tip
If you don't want to build a rhizome barrier or are looking for a bamboo that grows like a clump, then choose a black garden bamboo.