Phyllostachys praecox

At a glance

Exposure
Full sun

Cultivation

Requires a rich damp soil in a sheltered position and plenty of moisture in the growing season. Dislikes prolonged exposure to hard frosts. This species is notably resistant to honey fungus. Plants only flower at intervals of many years. When they do come into flower most of the plants energies are directed into producing seed and consequently the plant is severely weakened. They sometimes die after flowering, but if left alone they will usually recover though they will look very poorly for a few years. If fed with artificial NPK fertilizers at this time the plants are more likely to die. This is a good companion species to grow in a woodland because the plants are shallow rooted and do not compete with deep rooted trees.

Propagation

Seed - surface sow as soon as it is ripe in a greenhouse at about 20°c. Do not allow the compost to dry out. Germination usually takes place fairly quickly so long as the seed is of good quality, though it can take 3 - 6 months. Grow on in a lightly shaded place in the greenhouse until large enough to plant out. Seed is rarely available. Division in spring as new growth commences. Divisions from the open ground do not transplant well, so will need careful treatment and nurturing under cover in pots until at least late spring. Basal cane cuttings in spring.

Edible uses

Young shoots - cooked. One of the first species to be ready to eat in the spring, they are usually boiled in at least one change of water. The shoots are harvested in the spring when they are about 8cm above the ground, cutting them about 5cm below soil level.

Habitat

Plains.

Native range

E. Asia - China in Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

Same genus