Chinese Timber Bamboo 'McClure'

Phyllostachys vivax 'McClure' is one of the most cold-hardy 'giant' bamboos available to UK gardeners, capable of producing very thick, impressive culms even in our temperate climate. While the species is known for its size, the 'McClure' cultivar is particularly noted for its vigour and ability to reach 8 to 10 metres in the UK. The culms are a bright green and can reach the diameter of a soda can once the plant is established. The leaves are large and pendulous, giving the plant a lush, tropical canopy. Like all P. vivax varieties, the culm walls are relatively thin, making them susceptible to heavy snow damage, but the plant recovers quickly. It is a vigorous runner and MUST be planted with a heavy-duty root barrier. It needs a sunny, fertile site to achieve its full potential. This is the bamboo for those who want a true 'forest' feel in a larger garden. The young shoots are also highly regarded for their flavor in Asian cuisine.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Deep, fertile, moist soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.