Phyllostachys heteroclada, the fishscale bamboo, also known as "water bamboo", is a running bamboo. The water bamboo name comes from the air canals in the rhizomes and roots that allow this bamboo to grow in more saturated conditions as compared to similar species. This species can also have abrupt kinks at the base of the culms. Maximum height can reach 35 ft with a diameter of 2 in. It is cold hardy to around -5 °F. It grows well in USDA zones 6b-10.
Fishscale bamboo has good disease resistance and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is relatively low maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. However, smaller plants should be trimmed after they have finished blooming. Fishscale bamboo is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not need extensive care experience.
How to keep Phyllostachys Heteroclada.
Light
Fishscale bamboo occurs naturally in habitats like forest understories or rocky sites where it is exposed to natural shade. It favors partial sun but can tolerate both full sun and full shade, reflecting its hardy and adaptable nature.
Temperature
Fishscale bamboo can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution may still be constrained by particular combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer conditions with sufficient rainfall or watering. Long periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures increase the risk of Fishscale bamboo dying. In winter, adequate protection from the cold can enhance the plant’s survival rate.
Fertilizer
Fishscale bamboo benefits from added nutrients to encourage healthy new growth. In spring, applying compost around the base of the plant can effectively supply the nutrients it requires. Fertilizing helps support vigorous growth and aids the plant in resisting diseases and pests.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Grass
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Phyllostachys
- Family
- Poaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-10
- Mature Height
- 10.06 m to 14.94 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.05 m to 4.88 m
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall
- Native Area
- China
Other names.
