Growth habit: clumping (non-invasive)

Culm (cane) color: mainly green, though some shoots will be powder blue and yellow

Spacing: 4' between plants

Mature height: 40'

Maximum culm (cane) diameter: 2"

Maximum clump diameter: 6'

Minimum temperature: 12 degrees Fahrenheit

Light: full sun (4 hours minimum per day)

Kanapaha, the larger cousin to the popular Graceful species of bamboo, is a noninvasive variety that reaches a maximum height of 40’. It grows very erect, with foliage that appears 6'-8’ above ground level. Its 2" diameter culms (shoots) range in color from green to blue to yellow. The base diameter of Kanapaha bamboo — the cluster of shoots — grows to around 6'. This native Chinese bamboo is also known as "weaver's bamboo," thanks to its usefulness in textiles and crafts. This is a truly spectacular species rarely found at other nurseries. We carry these in 3-gallon pots for $50, 7-gallon pots for $75, and 15-gallon pots for $150.

Fun fact: Kanapaha is named for Kanapaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville, Florida, which is home to the largest bamboo garden in the state. The name is a Native American (Timucuan) contraction of the words "palmetto leaves" and "house."

Plant Care

This species, like all tropical clumping bamboos, requires ample sunlight. When planting as a privacy hedge, space each pot of bamboo about 3’-4’ apart. If planting near an existing wall or fence, allow for ample space for the bamboo’s clump to spread — ideally, 2’-3’ inside of the fence boundary. Dig the hole slightly larger than the pot that the bamboo came in, and about as deep as the pot is tall.

Water the bamboo well after planting. Bamboo often experiences shock from transplanting and may lose some leaves while it adjusts to its new home. This is completely normal. Continue watering the bamboo every 2 days for approximately 2 weeks after planting, at which point the plant should be over its initial shock and will only need to be watered as needed. If the bamboo requires more water, its leaves will begin curling.

Have questions about your bamboo? We’re happy to help. Feel free to give us a call at 504-296-8398 or email info@ninthwardnursery.com.