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Semiarundinaria fastuosa

Narihira bamboo

A large and vigorous, erect evergreen bamboo forming dense clumps of glossy dark green canes, red-flushed purple in a sunny position. Tufts of short, densely leafy shoots. Leaves oblong, to 20cm, rich dark green above, glaucous beneath

Synonyms
Arundinaria fastuosa
Arundinaria narihira
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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Poaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Suckering, Clump forming
Genus

Semiarundinaria are tall, upright, vigorous bamboos with running rhizomes but may form dense clumps in cooler areas; smooth canes bear several branches at each node with narrowly lance-shaped leaves

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Japan

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, in full sun or light dappled shade. May remain clump-forming in colder areas, poor or dry soils but can become invasive in warm, moist or favourable conditions and need restraining ; see bamboo control and bamboo cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by young rhizome cuttings and the division of established plants in Spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • Hedging and screens
Pruning

Remove weak, dead, damaged or spindly stems in spring and thin to show off stems to best effect. Cut out any flowering shoots promptly to discourage more from forming - see bamboo cultivation

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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