Running Bamboo
Arundinaria spp
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Pl. 69C6 — Arundinaria spp
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IOverview
Overview
Running Bamboo (Arundinaria spp.) is a native grass found in the southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama to Florida and as far north as Illinois and Indiana. This plant thrives in moist soils and can tolerate partial sun to full shade, making it adaptable to various light conditions. Known for its edible shoots and seeds, running bamboo grows up to 10 meters tall and is often used as an ornamental due to its graceful form. One distinctive feature of this species is its ability to spread through underground rhizomes, forming dense stands. Its hardiness spans from zone 4 to 10, making it suitable for a wide range of climates in the eastern United States.
Quick answers
What is Running Bamboo?
Running Bamboo (Arundinaria spp.) is a native grass found in the southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama to Florida and as far north as Illinois and Indiana. This plant thrives in moist soils and can tolerate partial sun to full shade, making it adaptable to various light conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Running Bamboo (Arundinaria spp.) thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soils of medium consistency. It is hardy from zones 4-10 and can grow up to 10 meters tall. For best results, maintain a soil pH between 5 and 6.9. Propagate through seed or shoots for new growth. Ensure the plant has sufficient water, especially in drier periods, as it requires moisture to flourish.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-10
Habit
Subshrub, Shrub, Graminoid
Mature size
10.0 m tall
Soil pH
5–6.9
For first-time growers
How to grow Running Bamboo for the first time
8steps
Start with running bamboo by preparing the soil and planting in early spring for best results.
- 1
What you'll need
A shovel, a watering can or hose, and some mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring when temperatures are mild but not too cold.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5 and 6.9, and loosen it to about 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young bamboo plants from divisions or purchase established ones for planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the bamboo regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead or damaged shoots in early spring to maintain a healthy appearance. Harvest young shoots for culinary use if desired.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:SeedShoots
Edible uses: Running Bamboo (Arundinaria spp.) is edible and its shoots are commonly consumed. Typically, the young shoots are harvested in spring and prepared by peeling them before cooking or eating raw. The seeds can also be eaten but require more processing for consumption. Skip the details on soil pH as it does not directly relate to edible uses.
Other uses:Animal feed
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
18 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
18 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 18 native· 2 introduced
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Virginia, Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia, Alabama
introduced:Pennsylvania, Kansas
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 69c6b3a1-f05d-4412-8549-a5271dcd9728
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