Description:

I have encountered much confusion regarding the differences between Pleioblastus pygmaeus and Pleioblastus pygmaeus var. distichus.  Thus far, publications, and discussions with experts have not yeilded any conclusive information regarding the identity of this bamboo. That said, it seems to me that the main difference between the two is that the distichus variety has more tightly ranked leaves.  It grows to about 2’, in a wide range of soils in sun to nearly full shade, and is hardy to about 5 degrees F.  This bamboo is an attractive ground cover or container plant, nearly identical to the distichus variety if sheared. 

Planting History:

I purchased a one gallon container of this bamboo from Bamboo Garden Nursery in December 2002, and planted out in a morning sun location, in sandy, low nutrient soil.  It steadily spread over 2003 and 2004 growing seasons.

In summer 2004, I took many small propagations from the perimeter of the plant, which successfully stabilized by fall 2004. 

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