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Bambusa multiplex /ˈmʌl.tiˌplɛks/

Common name: Hedge bamboo · Chinese Goddess bamboo · Clumping bamboo

Bambusa multiplex is a densely clumping bamboo species native to southern China, long cultivated there and throughout Southeast Asia. It forms tight, slowly expanding clumps of slender upright culms thickly clothed in small leaves, creating a naturally dense screen. It is one of the most widely planted ornamental bamboos in warm climates, prized for hedges, privacy screens, and container culture because its sympodial rhizomes do not run and invade. Several popular selections, including the variegated 'Alphonse Karr' and the dwarf 'Golden Goddess', derive from this species.

Fun facts

  • The species name 'multiplex' refers to its many-branched, many-culmed habit; a single clump can carry hundreds of slender canes.
  • The famous variegated bamboo 'Alphonse Karr', with golden culms striped in green, is a form of Bambusa multiplex.
  • Because its rhizomes are sympodial, the clump typically expands only a few centimeters per year, so it is one of the safest bamboos to plant without a root barrier.
  • It has been cultivated in China for centuries as a hedge and windbreak plant and was among the first bamboos introduced to Western gardens.

Care summary

Sun Full sun to partial shade; densest in good light
Water Keep evenly moist; water deeply in dry spells, dislikes prolonged drought
Soil Fertile, moist, well-drained loam; tolerates clay with drainage
Hardiness Zones 9–11
Mature height 3–5 m (10–16 ft)
Pet safe Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty Moderate
Propagation By division of the clump or culm cuttings in spring

Make your own Hedge bamboo · Chinese Goddess bamboo · Clumping bamboo profile

Common problems

    • Grow in pots to overwinter indoors
    • Mulch heavily before first frost
    • Cover clumps with frost cloth overnight
    • Cut dead culms back in spring
    • Provide afternoon shade in hot climates
    • Water deeply during dry winds
    • Plant behind a hedge or fence
    • Trim off fully browned leaves
    • Divide the root mass every few years
    • Repot into a larger container
    • Slice off outer root sections when congested
    • Use fresh, well-draining potting mix
    • Hose foliage down regularly
    • Treat with horticultural oil
    • Remove heavily infested leaves