Name: Phyllostachys nigra 'Hale' – Black Bamboo
SKU: 799
Availability: InStock

Phyllostachys nigra ‘Hale’ – Black Bamboo

Price range: $34.00 through $70.00

NOTE: As of 2023, this species has begun to flower in some areas, not on our farm, though. Phyllostachys b amboo only flowers once every 100 years, then (usually) dies after flowering. We will be glad to offer substitutions from another Phyllostachys species in the event any Black Bamboo purchased from us after Jan 1, 2023 dies off. Please email us and include your order number for further details.

(Poaceae – Grass Family)

Bamboo goes through a shooting phase from Spring to Mid-Summer. Orders received after May 1st may not be able to ship until Mid-July. Please note that some years bamboo incurs winter injury from extreme cold and will only be available in July after the new growth hardens.

We can only ship Bamboo plants up to 5-7′ tall. If we receive an order for taller sizes without an e-mail about pickup or delivery, we will ship 5-7′ tall plants and issue a refund for the difference.

Max Ht 20′ • Max Culm Dia 1.5″ • Min Temp -2°F

Native to Hunan Province of China

Ships B&B in active growth

General Information: Smaller in height and diameter than Phyllostachys nigra straight species, only reaching about 7 feet in our plantings. This cultivar has proven to be slightly more cold hardy, and develops black coloration compared to our planting of the straight species. Like the straight species, this variety of Black Bamboo also emerges green and fades to black over the course of a year, so there is no need for alarm if the desired black coloration isn’t observed when new culms (canes) begin to develop in early summer. During winter in colder regions, the canes tend to bend completely to the ground under the weight of snow, although they usually do not break. Considered to be high quality wood which reaches maximum density when the canes are 3-5 years old. Useful for fine craft work, inlays, or trim. The leaves of P. nigra have been historically used in herbal medicine. Modern studies report they are are rich in flavonoids. The shoots have a distinct flavor and are reported to be best consumed when boiled in one change of water. Outstandingly ornamental – a true gem among Bamboos.

Cultivation Details: Consider installing a rhizome barrier, berm, trench, or adopting a strict mowing plan to limit the spread of running Bamboos. We have observed this particular variety spread a bit slower than other Phyllostachys Bamboo, however this may be due to Zone 6 being the absolute limit of the plant’s cold tolerance. We have seen this species suffer leaf damage at 5°F, with complete cane die back occurring between 0°F and -5°F. This plant will require protection from winter winds in cold climates. As a smaller, more ornamental cultivar, this Bamboo’s arching and sprawling habit aims to make a statement in areas where space is limited, or wherever flair is desired! This cultivar may be the most suitable Phyllostachys species we offer for indoor container growing.

Growing Requirements: Prefers full sun. Tolerates partial shade, but cane growth will be much more patchy, creating a more open grove. Prefers any well-drained soil. Plant in a position sheltered from winter winds in Zones 5-7.

Note: For quantity or wholesale pricing, if you need to schedule a delivery, or if you wish to pick up plants at the farm, e-mail us at: Info@tripplebrookfarm.com. Whenever possible, it is preferable to pick up plants here at the farm so we can dig huskier root balls.