Phyllostachys vivax

Botanical Description

Phyllostachys vivax is an evergreen bamboo that can grow 5 - 15 metres tall; the erect, woody culms are 40 - 75mm in diameter with thick-walled internodes uo to 32cm long. The rhizomes are elongated, the plant having a running habit that can produce new canes some distance from the main clump, especially in warm climates. This tendency to run, however, is somewhat curtailed in cooler climates, where new shoot production can be rather reduced. The plant is widely cultivated in southeastern China, especially for the production of edible shoots but also as a source of materials. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental, valued especially for its beautiful culms and elegant, drooping foliage[ 266 Title Flora of China Publication Author Website http://flora.huh.harvard.edu/china/ Publisher Missouri Botanical Garden Press; St. Louis. Year 1994 ISBN Description An excellent, comprehensive resource in 25 volumes. In addition to the botanical information the flora also gives basic information on habitat and some uses. An on-line version is also available. ].