Phyllostachys nigra (Black Bamboo)
Phyllostachys nigra, commonly known as Black Bamboo, is one of the more elegant and interesting bamboo varieties. It features erect, black stems that host a canopy of lush, dark green leaves. New stems emerge cream-green before aging to black. It typically grows to 3 m tall and 2 m wide, performing best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. It does require shelter and frost protection when young and will not tolerate poorly drained soils. This Bamboo makes for an impressive feature alongside a wall or fence, and is generally grown as a cluster, included in Oriental gardens, or used for screening. It is a running Bamboo, so root containment may be required.
