Bamboo

Description

Phyllostachys is a genus of Asian bamboo in the grass family. Many of the species are found in Central and southern China, with a few species in northern Indochina and in the Himalayas. Some of the species have become naturalized in parts of Asia, Australia, the Americas, and southern Europe. The stem or culm has a prominent groove, called a sulcus, that runs along the length of each segment (or internode). Because of this it is one of the most easily identifiable genera of bamboo. Most of the species spread aggressively by underground rhizomes. Some species of Phyllostachys grow to 100 feet (30 m) tall in optimum conditions. Some of the larger species, sometimes known as "timber bamboo", are used as construction timber and for making furniture. The name Phyllostachys means "leaf spike" and refers to the inflorescences. Some of the smaller species can be grown as bonsai.