Plants in genus fargesia
Fargesia murielae
Fargesia murielae is a large, clump-forming evergreen bamboo native to the mountains of central China. It grows up to 10-14 feet tall with canes that are about 0.5 inches in diameter. This bamboo is hardy to 5°F and thrives in USDA zones 5 through 9. Its new shoots are light blue with tan sheaths, maturing to yellowish-green, and it prefers afternoon shade. Notably, it is non-invasive and has a monocarpic life cycle, flowering once before dying.
Fargesia denudata
Fargesia denudata is a clumping bamboo species native to northern Sichuan and southern Gansu, China. It is heat-tolerant and grows up to 8 feet tall within five years, forming arching canes. This bamboo is deer-resistant and serves as a food source for giant pandas. It prefers part sun to light shade and is suitable for creating a tropical look in gardens.
Fargesia 'Little Red Head'
Fargesia 'Little Red Head' is a hardy, non-invasive clumping bamboo with blue-green shoots and red sheaths in spring. It grows quickly and can tolerate full sun or afternoon shade, making it adaptable to various soil conditions. This bamboo is rarely damaged by deer and is ideal for gardeners seeking a fast-growing, low-maintenance plant.
Fargesia robusta 'Wolong'
Fargesia robusta 'Wolong' is a clumping bamboo from Sichuan, China, known for its larger, deer-resistant foliage and tropical feel. It forms 7-foot tall clumps and is sensitive to heat, thriving in shaded areas.
Fargesia dracocephala
Fargesia dracocephala is a clumping bamboo known for its bright orange-red shoots in spring. It grows to a height of 6 to 10 feet and spreads 6 to 8 feet wide, making it a non-invasive option for gardens. Hardy in USDA zones 5 to 7, it thrives in full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soil with moist to average watering needs. Pruning is recommended in late winter to maintain its shape.
Fargesia robusta 'Ping Wu'
Fargesia robusta 'Ping Wu' is a heat-tolerant clumping bamboo that forms an 8-foot tall by 2-foot wide clump. It is deer-resistant and spreads to 9 feet wide, making it an elegant specimen for gardens. Despite its name, it is not as cold-tolerant as some myths suggest.
Fargesia rufa
Fargesia rufa is a non-invasive clumping bamboo native to western China, serving as a significant food source for the giant panda. It grows up to 6 feet tall with reddish-brown culm sheaths and is tolerant of both heat and cold.
Fargesia scabrida
Fargesia scabrida is an upright clumping bamboo from China, known for its large foliage and prominent leaf sheaths. It forms a 12-foot tall clump and performs well in hot, humid climates. New shoots may appear blue or purple in cooler climates, adding a unique touch to this ornamental grass.