SafePlants

Bambusa vulgaris: An Overview

Bambusa vulgaris, commonly known as common bamboo, is a widely cultivated bamboo species with a rich history and diverse applications.

Considerations for Pets

• Bambusa vulgaris is a grass or grass-like shrub, which may attract curious pets.

Considerations for Children

• The text indicates the plant has been used to control erosion on steep slopes, suggesting it can grow to be quite large. Therefore, care should be taken when planting in areas frequently accessed by children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex J.C. Wendl.
• Common Names: Common bamboo
• Synonyms: Mentions that B. nana was used commonly for a similar species in S.E. Asia from 1868 until a later unspecified date.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Indochina and the province of Yunnan in southern China.
• Pantropically grown, especially common in cultivation in Southeast Asia.
• Common in the New World, being the only Asian species frequently found there.
• Found in Madagascar.
• Commonly seen in Southern California.

Ecological Role

• It is listed in Invasive Species Most Unwanted as Bambusa vulgaris.
• Mentioned as invading areas like the Caribbean National Forest (El Yunque, Puerto Rico).
• Used for soil erosion control.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is an open-clump type bamboo species.
• It is a giant tropical and subtropical clumping bamboo.
• Columnar form with nodding culm tips.
• Evergreen.
• Slightly arching yellow-green canes with narrow bright green leaves.

Additional Information

• Requires plenty of moisture.
• Considered one of the fastest-growing bamboos.
• The wood is not very flexible.