Phyllostachys aureosulcata - Bamboo

Phyllostachys aureosulcata is a botany bamboo quite spectacular and particularly well adapted to northern European climates. Of medium size, easy to cultivate in all exposures, it stands out for the graphic design of its canes. It has a dense foliage, most often evergreen, of a beautiful glossy green. In a hedge, as an isolated clump, in a bed, in a grove or even in a container, this bamboo brings life to any decor, it lacks neither presence nor elegance.

Originally from China, Phyllostachys aureosulcata belongs to the Poaceae family, it is a giant grass with woody stems. Its growth is quite fast, it spreads through trailing rhizomes that should be contained by anti-rhizome barriers. Its  habit is erect, vertical and narrow, it develops stems that are initially pubescent when young, becoming rough with age. These are culms, 3 to 4cm (1 to 2in) in diameter, rising up to approximately 7m (23ft) in height in our climates. In spring, the new stems (culms) exposed to full sun take on superb shades of pink, orange, red, purple and even magenta. In early summer, they acquire their brilliant green colour with yellow furrows, which is very striking, and the base of some of them form zig-zags. The foliage of this bamboo is abundant, composed of medium-sized leaves of a fairly dark and glossy green, measuring 9 to 10cm (4in) long and approximately 1.5 to 1.8cm (1in) wide. It is evergreen, but the leaves fall and renew twice a year, in autumn and spring. Perfectly hardy, this bamboo can withstand temperatures as low as -25 °C. However, in case of snowfall, remember to shake off the culms to remove the snow.

Undisputed star of Asian-inspired gardens, bamboo suits many styles, from the most contemporary to the most exotic, including natural gardens or water gardens. Planted en masse, it allows for the quick creation of small exotic forests, its graphic design brings verticality to the decor. Its rapid growth makes it an excellent candidate to conceal an unsightly view, especially if it is planted in fertile and fresh soil. Its presence is such that you can plant it as an isolated clump. Furthermore, in a bed, its unique style can sometimes be difficult to match. For example, combine it with tall grasses or certain palm trees. Bamboos combine very well with each other, choose varieties with differently coloured culms. They are always perfect near water features which they appreciate for their freshness. The cultivation of Phyllostachys aureosulcata is also possible in containers, so you can use it on a terrace as a plant screen to create intimate spaces. A long pathway bordered on both sides by bamboos will simply become a royal avenue. The young shoots of this bamboo are edible and highly prized by gourmets. However, it is necessary to boil them for a  while to tenderize them before eating.