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Fargesia nitida

Common name: Fountain bamboo · Blue fountain bamboo · Chinese fountain bamboo

Fargesia nitida is a clumping, non-running bamboo native to the mountains of Sichuan, China, where it grows in cool alpine forests. It forms a graceful, fountain-shaped clump of slender canes that mature to dark purple-blue tones, clothed in masses of fine, narrow evergreen leaves. Exceptionally cold-hardy for a bamboo, it is widely grown as an ornamental screen, hedge, or specimen plant, especially in climates too cold for most bamboos. It dislikes intense summer heat and drying winds, preferring cool, moist conditions.

Fun facts

  • It is one of the staple food bamboos of the giant panda in its native Sichuan mountains.
  • Like many bamboos it flowers only once in a lifetime; a mass flowering occurred in 2002-2005, and the species is not expected to bloom again for about 120 years.
  • The species name nitida means shining or glossy, referring to its polished dark canes.
  • Young culms develop striking dark purple-blue hues with vivid orange-tinted sheaths, giving rise to the name blue fountain bamboo.

Care summary

Sun Partial shade; tolerates full sun in cool climates, but protect from hot afternoon sun
Water Keep evenly moist; dislikes drought and standing water
Soil Rich, humusy, moist but well-drained soil
Hardiness Zones 5–9
Mature height 3–4.6 m (10–15 ft)
Pet safe Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty Easy
Propagation By clump division in early spring

Make your own Fountain bamboo · Blue fountain bamboo · Chinese fountain bamboo profile

Common problems

    • Plant in morning sun or light shade
    • Water deeply during hot dry spells
    • Mulch roots to keep them cool
    • Improve drainage before planting
    • Avoid waterlogged low-lying spots
    • Raise beds in heavy clay soil
    • Hand-pick slugs in the evening
    • Blast aphids off with water
    • Encourage ladybirds and lacewings nearby