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Common Bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris)


Family: Poaceae (Grass)
Genus: Bambusa
Species: vulgaris
Type: Perennial
Flowering: Flowers Absent; Foliage Evergreen
Zones: minimum 10 degrees Fahrenheit
Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil: Humus-rich, Moist
Height: up to 50 feet
Propagation: Division in Spring
Colors: Grown for Foliage
Origin: China
Common bamboo can only be grown in Iowa as an indoor specimen, since it will not tolerate temperatures below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Although it can be taken outdoors during the summer months, it will grow best inside in a climate controlled environment, where it can be sheltered with adequate water and proper lighting conditions. Since common bamboo enjoys plenty of moisture, keeping it well watered is a necessity for a healthy plant. If you are looking for an unusual plant that will take overwatering in stride, common bamboo will work well in your indoor garden.

Please note that the Zones listed above are USDA Hardiness Zones and are only given as a rough indication of whether a plant will grow and thrive in your area. Temperature variations and unusual weather conditions can affect plant survival. To assist plant survival during the winter, you may wish to place mulch over the areas in question or plant the flowers in an area away from walls or cement. Additionally, digging up bulbs and roots to overwinter indoors may be preferrable to keeping them in the ground.