Phyllostachys aureosulcata – Yellow Groove Bamboo

General Information: An edible and ornamental running Bamboo. Despite being an aggressive spreader, this species is one of the more popular varieties. This variety is the mirror image of our most popular ornamental variety, Green Groove Bamboo (Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Spectabilis’). The culms (canes) are strongly upright, with dense foliage along their entire length. A good species for hedges or screens. Young culms are green, with yellow grooves becoming more pronounced over time. Shoots are notably free of acrid flavor, even when raw; one of the best species for edible shoot production. Wood is not of high quality, as compared with other species, and is less durable than that of other Phyllostachys species when used outdoors. The upper portions of the culms are often straight, and although they are prone to splintering, they are suitable for many light uses. Depending on the year, anywhere from 20% to 60% of the new culms will develop a distinct and sometimes very pronounced crook near the base. This feature, which is descriptively referred to as genuflection (meaning “bending of the knee”) adds to the ornamental appeal of the species. Yellow Groove been reported to grow as large as 40′ tall with 2¼” diameter culms in the U.S.

Cultivation Details: 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. Plants are initially quick to spread compared to other Phyllostachys Bamboos. Rhizome growth may seem slow to start in the first year, but in an established planting, plants can spread underground over 4 feet per season. Individual canes reach their full height in 90 days once they have begun shooting. While this species of Bamboo has been exceptional in our plantings in terms of vigor and height, they are prone to leaf damage from very cold winter winds. Our plantings of this species are located near a pond which frequently floods. From our observation, this species may tolerate standing water and high soil moisture better than other Phyllostachys Bamboos.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun. Prefers any moist soil. Tolerates most soil types. Suitable for most soil pH.

Note: This variety is priced higher than other similar Bamboo selections, such as Green Groove (Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Spectabilis’ ). This is due, in part, to the fact that it is more labor-intensive for us to dig, and our stock is more limited. 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.