Identifying Clumping Bamboo: Possibly Phyllostachys

A clumping bamboo reaching 30 feet with 7 cm (2.75 inch) diameter culms, oval in cross-section, used for scaffolding—this suggests a large temperate running bamboo, not a clumper. True clumpers (e.g., Fargesia) stay under 15 feet and have thinner culms.

Likely candidates:

• Phyllostachys edulis (Moso bamboo) – culms up to 7 inches, used for construction; a runner.
• Phyllostachys bambusoides (Japanese timber bamboo) – similar size, also a runner.
• Bambusa oldhamii – a clumper, but culms ~4 inches, tropical.

Bamboos are grasses (Poaceae). Many Phyllostachys species are hardy to zone 6. To identify yours:

1. Note your location (zone).
2. Check the American Bamboo Society website (americanbamboosociety.org) for photo galleries.
3. Visit a local nursery specializing in bamboo.
4. Look for a groove (sulcus) above the nodes—characteristic of Phyllostachys.

If it's a runner, install a rhizome barrier to control spread.