Growth habit: clumping (non-invasive)

Culm (cane) color: dark green

Spacing: 4'-6' between plants

Mature height: 50'-60'

Maximum culm (cane) diameter: 4"

Maximum clump diameter: 6'

Minimum temperature: 20 degrees Fahrenheit

Light: full sun (4 hours minimum per day)

This is the tallest-growing clumping bamboo that we carry, reaching a maximum height of 60' at maturity. Oldhamii, also known as giant timber bamboo, works well in yards where its clump (cluster of shoots) has ample room to grow — it can reach a base diameter of 6' when mature, though this can easily be pruned. Oldhamii has a very erect growing habit, making its straight culms prized for construction and crafts projects. Its thick culms and leaves (8"-12" long) also make Oldhamii especially attractive for its screening capability. Oldhamii is less cold-hardy than other species we carry, dropping leaves as temperatures drop into the 20s. We carry these in 7-gallon pots for $75, and 15-gallon pots for $150.

Fun fact: Bambusa Oldhamii is widely cultivated for its excellent tasting shoots.

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.