Phyllostachys nigra (Black Bamboo)

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

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.

Phyllostachys nigra is currently unavailable.

Why? Our plants are subject to seasonality and high-demand. Please contact us if you would like to know when it becomes available again.

Suited to regions:	Subtropical
Plant type:	Shrubs
Height:	3.00 m
Spread:	2.00 m
Flowering time:
Tolerances:
Garden uses:	Containers, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles:	Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
Easy to grow?	Yes
Maintenance requirements	Low
Growth rate	Medium
Also known as
Sku	15044

How to grow Black Bamboo in NZ

Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra) grows well in New Zealand’s temperate climate when planted in full sun to partial shade and in well-drained, fertile soil. Choose a sheltered position to protect the canes from strong winds. Water regularly during the first growing season and mulch to retain soil moisture. This running bamboo spreads via underground rhizomes, so a root barrier or regular maintenance is recommended. Prune older canes at ground level to encourage fresh, black culm development.

Phyllostachys nigra care tips

Phyllostachys nigra prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently watered during dry spells, especially while the plant is establishing. Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Use a balanced fertiliser in spring to promote healthy growth. To encourage the development of deep black culms, remove older or faded canes at ground level. Install a root barrier or trench to prevent unwanted spreading, as it is a running bamboo.

Garden uses for Black Bamboo plants

Black Bamboo is ideal for creating privacy screens, windbreaks, and dramatic vertical accents in gardens. Its striking black culms contrast beautifully with green foliage, making it a standout feature in modern or Asian-inspired landscapes. It can be used as a living fence, a backdrop for feature plantings, or grown in large containers to control spread. Black Bamboo also suits tropical-themed gardens and works well along paths or boundary lines for structure and height.