When we talk about “Red Bamboo,” we’re usually talking about varieties of *Fargesia nitida* ‘Jiuzhaigou 1’. You’ll often see these beauties sold in garden centers under catchy names like “Chinese Wonder.” With those stunning crimson canes, they are an absolute favorite for adding a pop of color to any backyard landscape.
What are the different varieties of Red Bamboo?
While the *Fargesia nitida* ‘Jiuzhaigou’ family is the true “Red Bamboo,” there are a few other types out there with reddish canes that often get lumped into the same category. Just a heads-up: some of these look-alikes have different growth habits and might not be quite as cold-hardy as the original.
A few varieties you might run into include:
- Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Spectabilis’
- Himalayacalamus falconeri ‘Damarapa’ (Candy Cane Bamboo)
Where is the best place to plant Red Bamboo?
Red Bamboo is pretty flexible—it’ll grow in full sun or partial shade. However, here’s a pro tip: the more sunlight it gets, the more intense that red color becomes! You’ll want to find a spot that’s somewhat sheltered from harsh winds. It’s a tough plant, though, handling temperatures down to -13°F (-25°C), making it a great choice for colder climates.
One of the best things about *Fargesia* varieties is that they are “clumping” bamboos, so you don’t need to worry about a root barrier (rhizome barrier). If you opt for other red-caned varieties, you might need one to keep them from taking over. Since Red Bamboo can reach heights of up to 10 feet, make sure to give it some breathing room. A good rule of thumb is to leave a gap about half as wide as the plant’s expected final height.
What kind of soil does Red Bamboo need?
This bamboo thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter (humus). Before you put it in the ground, give the root ball a good soak. Once it’s tucked into its new home, give it another generous watering to help it settle in.
Can I grow Red Bamboo in a container?
Absolutely! Red Bamboo makes a fantastic container plant. Just make sure the pot is big enough for the roots to spread out—aim for a container with at least a 15-gallon (60-liter) capacity. Drainage is key here, so ensure your pot has holes in the bottom and a solid drainage layer. You can use:
- Old broken pottery shards
- Expanded clay pebbles
- Coarse gravel
Plan on repotting your bamboo or refreshing the soil every four years or so to keep it happy and healthy.
