This bamboo has spreading rhizomes and arching branched canes (culms) up to 70mm (2⅔ in) in diameter that become black with age and forms a clump. It has abundant dark green lanced-shaped leaves and the plant can form a thick screen. 

Hardiness zones 5 to 11 

Phyllostachys nigra is naturally found throughout east Asia growing in bamboo forests in well drained organic rich moderately fertile moist soils. It prefers an open sunny position and is frost tolerant but drought tender. 

The Black Bamboo is grown for its black canes and dense habit. It is planted in parks and gardens as a specimen or used for screening along borders. It is also planted in tubs and planter boxes for colour contrast and used in courtyards or around a water feature. It is fast growing and establishes in 3 years with the green canes becoming black in 2 to 3 years. This plant grows in a wide range of climate zones and spreads quickly to form a clump and requires containment. ID 906

Phyllostachys (fy-lo-STAIK-iss) nigra (NY-gra)

Poaceae (poh_AY-see-ee)
Grass Family