Himalayan Blue Bamboo (Himalayacalamus hookerianus): A Clumping Bamboo with Powder-Blue Culms

Himalayan Blue Bamboo, Himalayacalamus hookerianus, is a stunning clumping bamboo from the lower Himalayas. Its new culms (stems) emerge green but quickly develop a striking, powdery blue-white bloom that rubs off on touch.

Ornamental Culms

This bamboo grows 15–20 feet tall with thin-walled, graceful culms that arch at the tips. The leaves are small and delicate. The blue color is most intense in partial shade and on new growth. It forms a tight, non-running clump, expanding slowly.

Cultivation

It prefers cool, moist conditions with partial shade and protection from hot afternoon sun. Hardy to about 15°F (-9°C). It dislikes heat and humidity. The synonym Drepanostachyum falcatum reflects its former classification. A jewel for temperate woodland gardens.