Black Bamboo
Presentation
Black bamboo is unusual in that it has green stalks (also called canes) which turn black after two to three years, lending them a graphic appearance much coveted by gardeners seeking a contemporary design for their outdoor spaces.
This bamboo variety is very resistant to cold and requires very little upkeep.
Like most bamboos (there are over 1,500 varieties worldwide), it grows very fast.
The hollow stems of black bamboo offer an ideal habitat for solitary bees, which like to lay their eggs in the cavities. And that’s excellent news for enhancing biodiversity at Les Jardins de la Pascalinette!
The young shoots are edible and also contain various very-nutritious elements such as potassium and vitamin A.
To prepare the young shoots of Phyllostachys nigra, cut and cook them in salted water for about 30 minutes. They can then be incorporated in a plethora of recipes.
Identity
| Latin name : | Phyllostachys nigra |
|---|---|
| Family : | Poacées |
| Genus : | Phyllostachys |
| Species : | Nigra |
| Color : | Green leaves, black canes |
| Origin : | China |
| Foliage : | Evergreen |
| Port : | Willowy |
| Height : | 6 to 8 m |
| Flowering : | rare |
Did you know?
In some places, bamboo leaves are used to make fermented drinks and spirit vinegar.