Planting Position: Although Phyllostachys Nigra are suitable for a wide range of areas these plants are best suited to a sunny position where the sun’s rays can help the canes become as dark as possible, where possible they should be sheltered from cold drying winds that can on rare occasions permanently damage foliage this is especially important for coastal areas, black bamboo do not respond well to cold winds.
Soil: Any free draining damp soil is suitable but away from waterlogged areas.
Suitable for container planting: Yes ideal for both ground and container if in the pot will need to be re-potted periodically.
Eventual height and spread: Up to 5 metres with a 3 metre plus spread.
Growth Speed: Quick, Black bamboo can expect to add approximately 1/3 to its size annually.
Growth Habit: Upright
Flowering Period: Not Applicable.
Pruning: Not necessary.
Foliage: Dark to mid green up to 8cm long.
Evergreen: Yes, but like almost all Bamboo plants do shed some leaves during late Autumn/Early winter however these will soon be replaced once the temperatures start to rise and the growing season commences
Hardiness: -20 suitable for the whole UK
Although Bamboo 'Nigra' is a very versatile plant it grows best in well areated soil that is light in structure and rich in organic nutrients, ideally it should have good drainage but still retain some moisture. To promote growth and to help with keeping your plant looking lush and green feed with a general purpose organic liquid food during the growing season. If planted in a pot ensure an adequate water supply at all times. This plant need has no special requirements during the winter months. Awarded RHS Award of Garden Merit.
Are they evergreen
Bamboo are an evergreen, perennial and a member of the grass family. Fast growing, they take up very little lateral space and yet they can reach fabulous heights extremely quickly, making bamboo a very cost effective choice when you need screening fast! They will naturally shed some leaf during the winter months.
How much water do they need
Like any other plant, bamboo needs three basic things in order to survive. Soil, sun and water. And as a gardener, one of your greatest responsibilities is to provide your bamboo with water. They are an incredibly thirsty plant and will require watering on a daily basis especially during hot periods. .
Will it need a root barrier
Fargesia are a non invasive clumping bamboo and will not require a root barrier. Phyllostachys, Aureosulcata and Pseudosasa are all ‘runners’ which can be either planted in a larger pot or with a root barrier in the ground.
How quickly will it grow
This really is dependent on watering sunshine and care. You would hope to achieve at least another third in growth during the growing season.
How far apart should I plant them
Space mature plants 1 metre apart to form a dense screen. Fast Growing varieties can be planted a little further apart if you don't mind waiting longer for them to fill in the gaps.
Due to the height and weight of these plants they can only be delivered by ourselves or by pallet, if the plants are delivered by pallet we will have to reduce height to approximately 2 metres inclusive of pot. If we deliver ourselves the plants will have a delivered height of approximately 2.5 metres above the pot. As a general rule we deliver to almost all postcodes south of the nuresry in Worcestershire and if heading north upto approximately Leeds and Manchester, if you are based outside of our delivery areas and you need the plants delivered full height please contact us prior to purchase.
