Clumping Bamboo
“Non-Invasive Bamboo”
Clumping Bamboo for sale
Clumping bamboo offer a range of advantages that make them particularly well-suited for Australian gardens. Their contained growth means you can enjoy the lush, tropical aesthetic of bamboo without the worry of it becoming invasive. They are excellent for creating natural screens for privacy, acting as living fences, or serving as striking ornamental features. Their rapid growth, once established, means you can achieve a mature look relatively quickly. Furthermore, many clumping varieties are quite hardy and can tolerate a variety of Australian conditions, from coastal salt spray to drier inland areas, depending on the specific species. Their upright form also means they don’t cast an overly dense shade, allowing other plants to grow nearby.
Here are some of our most popular clumping bamboo varieties currently available for sale at Red Cloud Nursery:
Clumping Bamboo FAQs
What’s the main difference between clumping and running bamboo?
Clumping bamboo grows in a neat, contained bunch, with its underground stems (rhizomes) only spreading a little each year. Running bamboo, on the other hand, spreads out quite a bit with long underground stems, which can be a bit too wild for most gardens if not properly managed. For your Australian garden, clumping types are usually the best bet because they’re much easier to look after and won’t take over your yard.
Is it okay to grow bamboo in Australia?
Yes, you certainly can grow bamboo in Australia! It’s not considered a weed or a problem plant under Australian law, as long as you choose clumping varieties. These types are safe and well-behaved. It’s always a good idea to be mindful of your neighbours and the environment, but clumping bamboo is a fantastic and legal choice for your garden.
How quickly can I expect my clumping bamboo to grow?
Clumping bamboo is known for its speedy growth. New shoots can shoot up really fast, sometimes growing as much as a metre in a single day during the warmer months! It usually takes about two to three years for the clump to reach its full height and become nice and dense, giving you that lovely screening effect you’re after.
Can I plant bamboo close to my fence?
It’s a good idea to give your bamboo a bit of breathing room near a fence. Aim for a gap of about 50 centimetres between the fence and where you plant the bamboo. This helps stop the bamboo from pushing against the fence, makes it easier for you to trim and care for the plant, and keeps everything looking tidy.
What happens if I cut my bamboo back?
Don’t worry, cutting bamboo is actually good for it! When you trim your bamboo, especially the older stalks, it tells the underground roots to send up new shoots. These new shoots often grow up straighter and are easier to manage, which is great if you’re trying to maintain a neat hedge or privacy screen.
Which clumping bamboo varieties are best for screening?
For a fantastic privacy screen, you can’t go wrong with varieties like Bambusa Textilis ‘Gracilis’ (Slender Weavers). It’s fast-growing, stays nice and upright, and doesn’t get too wide. Bambusa Multiplex ‘Alphonse Karr’ is another great option with lovely coloured stalks, and Dendrocalamus Minor ‘Ghost Bamboo’ offers a softer, tropical look. These are all excellent choices for creating a green barrier.
