Phyllostachys nigra (Black Bamboo)

Prized as a garden ornamental, Phyllostachys nigra (Black Bamboo) is a striking evergreen bamboo with tall, upright, polished black canes that arch slightly at the top. Olive green at first, the culms, 2 in. wide (5 cm), quickly become mottled brown-black before maturing to almost jet black within 2-3 years. Since the culms do not mature at the same time, there is always a rich display of green and black culms. They contrast beautifully with the short and narrow, glossy green leaves, up to 5 in. (12 cm). Vigorous, this running bamboo makes an outstanding specimen or focal point in the landscape. It can also be used as a screen and can be grown in containers. One of the most popular ornamental bamboos. Hardiness: 14 to -4ºF (-10 to -20ºC).

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
• Grows up to 15-25 ft. tall (4-8 m) and 8-15 ft. wide (2-5 m).
• A full sun or partial shade lover, it is best grown in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soils. Best planted in an open position. May remain clump-forming in poor or dry soils but can become invasive in warm, moist or optimum conditions.
• Great choice as an accent plant, for hedges and screens and containers.
• Virtually pest and disease free. Deer are generally not problematic.
• Remove weak, dead, damaged or spindly stems in spring and thin to show off stems to best effect. Cut out any flowering shoots promptly to discourage more from forming.
• Propagate by division in spring.
• Native to China. Phyllostachys nigra can form dense thickets that displace native species. Once this plant is established, it is difficult to remove. 
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.