Broadleaf Bamboo (Indocalamus latifolius): A Running Bamboo with Giant Leaves for Deep Shade

Broadleaf Bamboo, Indocalamus latifolius, is a running bamboo from China distinguished by its enormous leaves—up to 20 inches long and 4 inches wide—the largest of any hardy bamboo.

Foliage Giant

This bamboo grows 6–10 feet tall with slender, green culms. The leaves are truly gigantic, creating a lush, tropical effect in deep shade. It spreads by rhizomes to form a groundcover layer. It is very cold-hardy (to -10°F/-23°C) and one of the most shade-tolerant bamboos.

Shade Groundcover

Indocalamus latifolius excels as a tall groundcover for dense shade where little else grows. Its running habit can be an asset for covering slopes or contained by barriers. A unique textural plant for the most challenging shady sites.