Name: Pleioblastus viridistriatus - Dwarf Greenstripe Bamboo; Kamuro-Zasa
SKU: 5873
Availability: InStock

Pleioblastus viridistriatus – Dwarf Greenstripe Bamboo; Kamuro-Zasa

Price range: $34.00 through $46.00

(Poaceae – Grass family)

Perennial Grass • 3-6′ • Zones 6 – 10

Native to Japan

Ships in active growth, B&B

General Information: A showy variegated running Bamboo. Chartreuse leaves with green stripes make this species one of the most beautiful Bamboos in existence, especially in spring and early summer. The 8-inch leaves are irregularly striped green and gold. As opposed to larger Bamboo species, members of the Pleioblastus genus have small canes (culms) which are easily cut with machinery or hand tools. When cut, new leaves emerge within a few days directly at ground level, effectively dwarfing the plant. As such, this species is a perfect candidate for lawn replacements for those looking for something exotic and ornamental. Dwarf Greenstripe Bamboo lends an enlivening and exotic feel to any patio, balcony, porch, or deck space. This species is uniquely suited as one of the few we carry capable of being kept indoors as a houseplant. Basket weavers and other craft makers may find this species useful as a high-yielding source of reed-like material. The culms are small (1/8 inch diameter or less) and pliable. They are useful for crafting baskets, mats, brooms, incense sticks, and other handiworks.

Cultivation Details: Space starter plants 12-24″ apart. Tolerates shade, but the most contrasting foliage color occurs in full sun. This species is useful as an understory in existing Bamboo groves, especially in plantings where the leaf growth on larger Bamboo species is sparse towards the base. Running Bamboo such as this species can be aggressive and form large colonies. Consider installing a rhizome barrier, berm, trench, or adopting a strict mowing plan to limit the spread of this species. Spread may also be slightly slowed by other factors such as planting in drier soils, and not fertilizing plants. There are no serious insect or disease problems and the fine hairs around the base of each culm make this species resistant to Bamboo Mites. Useful for screening as a low-growing natural fence. In Southern regions (Zones 7b-10), where this species remains evergreen, the plant is useful in areas where winter interest plantings are desired. Tolerant of Black Walnut trees, drought, and air pollution. Remove dead culms in spring, before new growth begins, using a string trimmer, mower, or hand tools. Plants can be cut during the shooting phase to reduce their height. Patches should be mowed down in the fall every 2-3 years to rejuvenate them.

Growing Requirements: Full sun to nearly full shade. Tolerates most soil types. Prefers medium moisture to moist soils. Tolerates dry sites once established. Keep irrigated in dry sites for at least 1 year. Does not tolerate wet soils. Suitable for mildly acidic, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils.