Description:

Pleioblastus shibuyanus 'Tsuboi'  is hands down, the best variegated bamboo of them all (my opinion, of course!).  New leaves emerge nearly all white and retain their variegation through the first growing season.  It spreads quickly once established, and reaches a maximum height of about 7', with a diameter of 1/2". It thrives in moist, organic, slightly acid soils, in part shade with some summer irrigation, and is hardy to 0 degrees F. Older stems take on a tattered look, but thining, or mowing down to the ground every other year will keep the planting fresh.  This is a nice plant for a low hedge or screen, specimen plant, or a container.

Planting History:

I purchased a 2 gallon container of this bamboo from bambu-u  in May 2001 and planted it out in an area shaded by an adjacent, wooded greenbelt.  It established quickly in this spot, and spread to fill an area 3’ x 12’.  The largest culms produce in 2004 were over 6’ tall, and as big around as a pencil.  It needs summer irrigation, or leaves will desiccate and fail.

I have taken dozens of propagations from the perimeter of the planting, and have found that it takes a good bit of time for field divisions to establish.  Container plants will grow in full sun, but need to be watered religiously and the variegation isn’t as bright.

Click on the “next” button below to view a picture, or back to plant list .