Spotted Blue Bamboo

Yushania maculata is a breathtakingly beautiful and rare bamboo that is a favorite among UK collectors. It is famed for its new culms, which emerge with a striking glaucous-blue coating, later maturing to a deep green with distinctive purple-black spots (lenticels). This provides a very high level of ornamental interest. It typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 metres with an upright and then gently arching habit. The leaves are long and narrow, adding to the elegant look. It is a 'clump-forming' runner, meaning it expands slowly but predictably compared to more aggressive species, though a barrier is still wise in small borders. It is hardy to H4/H5, preferring the cooler, higher-humidity environments found in the western and northern parts of the UK. It absolutely hates drying out and needs a sheltered spot away from strong, scorching winds. It is an exquisite specimen for a woodland garden or a shady corner where its blue tones can really shine.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Rich, moist, neutral to acidic soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.