Cloud Forest Bamboo

Fargesia yunnannensis is a majestic and highly sought-after clumping bamboo originating from the high-altitude forests of Yunnan. In the UK, it is prized for its stately, upright habit and the beautiful white, powdery bloom that covers the young culms, giving them a ghostly, bluish-grey appearance. The culms can grow surprisingly thick for a Fargesia, reaching heights of 4 to 5 metres. The leaves are larger and broader than many other Fargesia species, providing a lush, tropical feel that is hard to achieve with other hardy bamboos. It is generally hardy to H4/H5, making it suitable for most UK gardens provided it is sheltered from the coldest, drying winds. It dislikes waterlogged soil but must not be allowed to dry out completely. This bamboo is a superb choice for a specimen plant in a woodland garden or a large decorative pot. It is non-invasive and stays in a tidy, manageable clump.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained loam.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.