This genus of evergreen, rhizomatous bamboos is made up of 20 species from wooded areas in Japan and China. Their lance-shaped leaves are checkered or variegated and their leaf margins are usually white-bristled. They flower only rarely.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsVigorous growers. Most are variegated. Good for naturalizing, in woodland gardens, or as informal hedges. Some species are invasive.
CareMay need to be restrained. Grow in fertile, humusy, moist soil in full sun. Grow plants that are not variegated in partial shade.
PropagationSeparate rhizomes in spring and keep the divisions moist and shaded until they are established.
ProblemsGenerally trouble-free.
