Thamnocalamus spathaceus
| Thamnocalamus spathaceus | |
| Light: |    |
| Moisture: |  |
| Hardiness: | 6 |
| Soil pH: | 5.6-8.4 |
| Evergreen | |
| Height: | 13' |
| Width: | 16' |
| Open Woods Forest | |
| Native to: | |
| Tea: | Yes |
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Thamnocalamus spathaceus (common name: umbrella bamboo)
Propagation: Seed - surface sow as soon as it is ripe in a greenhouse at about 20°c. Do not allow the compost to dry out. Germination usually takes place fairly quickly so long as the seed is of good quality, though it can take 3 - 6 months. Grow on in a lightly shaded place in the greenhouse until large enough to plant out. Seed is rarely available.
Division in spring as new growth commences. Take divisions with at least three canes in the clump, trying to cause as little root disturbance to the main plant as possible. Grow them on in light shade in a greenhouse in pots of a high fertility sandy medium. Mist the foliage regularly until plants are established. Plant them out into their permanent positions when a good root system has developed, which can take a year or more[1].
Basal cane cuttings.
Rhizome cuttings.
Cultivation: Succeeds in most soils, so long as they are moist, in sun or shade[1].
Tolerates temperatures down to about -20°c[1].
This species is notably resistant to honey fungus[1].
Plants only flower at intervals of many years. When they do come into flower most of the plants energies are directed into producing seed and consequently the plant is severely weakened. They sometimes die after flowering, but if left alone they will usually recover though they will look very poorly for a few years. If fed with artificial NPK fertilizers at this time the plants are more likely to die[2].
Range: E. Asia - C. China in W. Sichuan, S. Guizhou and Shaanxi..
Habitat: Damp positions in woodlands up to 3000 metres.
Usage: Valuable for screen planting in wet areas[1].
The canes are used for farm appliances, poles etc.
Pollinators: Wind
Soil: Can grow in light, medium, and heavy soils.
In Leaf: Evergreen
Flower Type: Hermaphrodite
Also Known As: Fargesia spathacea.
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