Phyllostachys vivax
Common name: Giant timber bamboo · Chinese timber bamboo · Vivax bamboo
Phyllostachys vivax is a giant running timber bamboo native to eastern China, prized for its tall, thick-walled green culms and dense canopy of glossy leaves. It is among the fastest-growing bamboos in cultivation, sending up new shoots in spring that reach their full height in a single season. Gardeners grow it for dramatic screens, windbreaks, and timber production, though its running rhizomes demand containment in most settings.
Care summary
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Keep evenly moist while establishing; water deeply in dry spells
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained loam
Hardiness
Zones 6–10
Mature height
10–21 m (35–70 ft)
Pet safe
Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty
Easy
Propagation
By rhizome or culm division in early spring
Fun facts
- New spring shoots can grow over a meter per week, making it one of the fastest-growing temperate bamboos.
- Mature culms can reach 5 inches (13 cm) in diameter and are used for construction and furniture.
- The cultivar 'Aureocaulis' has striking golden-yellow canes randomly striped with green.
- Though a vigorous runner in warm climates, its spread slows noticeably where winters are cold.