Large culm
with white ring
Photo copyright: Ned Jaquith, 1997
New culms
Photo copyright: Jed Doty, 1997
Phyllostachys nuda
Common name: Nude Sheath bamboo
Maximum Height: 34 feet
Diameter: 1.75 inches
Hardiness: -15°
F
USDA Zone recommended 5 through 10
This is the hardiest of the Phyllostachys genus. It has dark green culms with a bright white ring at the node. The leaves are also darker than most other bamboos. In the spring the new culms are often near-black in color for a few weeks as the new foliage appears. Shoots usually begin to appear during the third week of April here in Portland.