Dwarf River Cane

Arundinaria tecta, also known as Dwarf River Cane, is a smaller, vigorous, spreading bamboo native to North America, similar to its larger relative, A. gigantea. It is characterised by its slender, upright green culms and medium-sized, lance-shaped leaves. This running bamboo typically reaches an ultimate height of 1-2.5 metres with an indefinite spread if not contained, making it suitable for naturalistic plantings in larger areas. It is hardy in the UK, rated H5, tolerating temperatures down to -20°C. 'Tecta' thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist to wet, fertile soils, often found in boggy areas or along water margins. Flowering is sporadic. Its dense growth makes it useful for erosion control or for providing evergreen cover in challenging, damp locations.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist to wet, fertile loam.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.