Growth habit: running (potentially invasive if not controlled)

Culm (cane) color: dark brown/black when mature; mottled green/black when immature

Spacing: 4' between plants

Mature height: 50'

Maximum culm (cane) diameter: 3"

Minimum temperature: 0 degrees Fahrenheit

Light: full sun (4 hours minimum per day)

Phyllostachys Nigra is a running species of bamboo, remarkable for its black culms. When young, shoots emerge that appear green or yellowish green, which over time turn dark brown to black. This species has a very erect appearance, though individual arching branches sometimes require pruning to look their best — nigra bends easily. Note that, as a "running" variety of bamboo and needs to be contained, either in planters, pots or via polyethylene rhizome (root) barrier. We carry these in 3-gallon pots for $50, 7-gallon pots for $75, and 15-gallon pots for $150.

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.