Black Bamboo plants......Phyllostachys Nigra

The plant known as Black Bamboo is more correctly known as 'Phyllostachys Nigra v. Black Bamboo', and is also often referred to as Oriental Black Bamboo.

Black Bamboo is in fashion, which is a surprise given the bad press that bamboos usually get as a result  of their invasiveness. Suppliers can't meet demand and prices are high for even a small plant, in both Europe and USA where it is currently popular.

So to what does Phyllostachys Nigra owe this popularity? It is sophisticated and rare, architectural and interesting, all at the same time. It can create a central focus in a garden, or a splendid hedge. And it improves each year. Black Bamboo will bring an interesting focal point to all medium and large sized gardens, in temperate climates.

The visual appeal of the Black Bamboo is that while the canes turn progressively darker, the leaves always remain bright green, making a very attractive contrast. The stems begin green, change to brown / grey, and then turn black as the year progresses, ending up completely ebony black. The complete process of 'blackening' can continue into the second year of growth. This effect is enhanced as the years pass, because the existing stems are already black, with the new green stems beside them.

You can buy black bamboo plants from our recommended supplier in the UK: see Crocus

The other advantage of Black Bamboo is that while it will spread, it does it with moderation and at a speed that can be controlled. Hence it is perfect as either a specimen plant taking centre stage, or simply used as a backdrop for the garden.

You should be aware that there are other varieties of Phyllostachys nigra apart from 'Black Bamboo', some of which stay forever green, so do ensure you are buying the correct one.

See related articles: growing Black Bamboo and propagating Black Bamboo, or explore other Black and colourful Bamboos apart from Phyllostachys nigra.

Picture courtesy of Renata Hundley