Black Bamboo (*Phyllostachys nigra*) is a real speed demon in the garden. One of the coolest things about it is that the canes (or culms) emerge from the ground at their full diameter and reach their maximum height in just a few short weeks. After a few years, those older canes die off to make room for new ones, which usually grow about three feet taller than the previous generation.
How Black Bamboo Grows
Even though it looks like a shrub, Black Bamboo is actually a member of the grass family. It’s a tall drink of water, too, easily reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet.
Keep in mind that this plant is a bit of a late bloomer when it comes to its full potential—it takes about 10 years to produce its longest canes. When they first pop up in loose clumps, they’re actually green. During their second year, you’ll start to see brownish-black spots, and by the third year (especially in sunny spots), they usually turn that iconic, deep ebony color.
The evergreen foliage is a stunning, glossy dark green on top with a matte gray-green underside. The leaves grow between 2 and 5 inches long, creating a gorgeous contrast against those dark canes.
Finding the Perfect Sunny Spot
Black Bamboo is happiest in full sun to partial shade. If you want those canes to have the most intense, beautiful black color, give it as much sun as possible. Just make sure the spot is somewhat sheltered from the wind. This little bit of protection goes a long way in helping your hardy bamboo survive the winter chill.
Caring for Your Black Bamboo
To keep your bamboo lush and healthy, you’ll want to get the soil and maintenance just right. Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind:
- Soil Quality: Aim for sandy to loamy soil that’s rich in organic matter (humus).
- pH Levels: It’s not too picky—slightly acidic to alkaline soil works fine, and it can even handle a bit of lime.
- Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist.
- Mulching: Spread some bark or fallen leaves around the base to help lock in moisture and prevent the roots from drying out.
- Watering: Water regularly, even during the winter. Pro tip: if you see the leaves starting to roll up, your plant is thirsty!
- Winter Protection: For young plants, it’s a good idea to wrap them in garden fleece to protect them from heavy frost.
- Containment: While this variety isn’t as aggressive as some others, it is a runner. You should definitely install a root barrier (rhizome barrier) when planting to keep it from taking over your entire yard.
