Description:

Qiongzhuea tumidissinoda was introduced to the U.S. in the mid 90’s and is still relatively rare here.  The prominent culm nodes are the trademark of this bamboo, but its weeping habit and lacy foliage are also features that make it an outstanding ornamental. The culms are used for decorative walking sticks, furniture and crafts, and the fresh shoots are some of the most prized in China.  Native to the high plateaus of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, this bamboo is well adapted to the cool climate and acid soils of western Washington and is hardy to about 10 degrees F.  It is a very vigorous, fast-spreading bamboo under the right growing conditions, attaining a maximum height of 20’ and culm diameter of about 1”.  It thrives in partial sun to nearly full shade, growing in rich, moist, well-drained soil with some irrigation in summer. This is my absolute favorite bamboo for its graceful form and delicate appearance, making a stunning focal point.

Planting History:

I purchased a tiny propagation of this plant in October of 1998, and planted it in along a south facing wall, in native silty loam amended with composted horse manure.  The plant died back to the ground during a cold snap with overnight lows around 3 degrees F. 

In September 1999, I acquired a second, tiny plant through an ABS auction.  I planted this one out on the south side of a fence in a more protected, part shade location, in native silty loam amended with 12” composted horse manure.  The first winter, I surrounded it with baled straw, stacked 2 high, and covered with tarp over cold nights.

With summer irrigation, it has grown in size and spread very rapidly, filling in an area about 10’ x 20’ in five growing seasons, and yielding numerous propagations from the perimeter to control spread.  The largest 2004 shoots are about 15’ high with a diameter of about .75” at the nodes.

Divisions “take” best in spring, but are difficult due to the scarcity of fibrous roots.   My container plants have done well in nearly full shade. 

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