Best Bamboo Varieties for Tennessee

Bamboo, a versatile and sustainable plant, has gained significant attention in recent years due to its rapid growth and numerous applications. If you're considering adding bamboo to your Tennessee landscape, you might be wondering, "What kind of bamboo grows in Tennessee?" This guide will help you understand the types of bamboo that thrive in the Volunteer State's climate.

Tennessee's climate is generally humid subtropical, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The USDA hardiness zones range from 5b to 8a, providing a suitable environment for various bamboo species. Let's explore the types of bamboo that grow well in Tennessee.

Clumping Bamboo Species

Clumping bamboo is an excellent choice for Tennessee gardens as it stays in a tight, manageable area and doesn't spread aggressively like running bamboo. Here are two popular clumping bamboo species that grow well in Tennessee:

Golden Bamboo (Phyllostachys aureosulcata)

Golden Bamboo is a stunning, fast-growing clumping bamboo with bright yellow culms (stems) and green leaves. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Golden Bamboo can reach heights of 15-25 feet and widths of 6-10 feet, making it an impressive addition to your landscape.

Golden Bamboo is also known for its cold hardiness, tolerating temperatures down to -10°F when established. This makes it an excellent choice for the colder regions of Tennessee, such as the Appalachian Highlands.

Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra)

Black Bamboo, also known as 'Henon' or 'Moso,' is another popular clumping bamboo species that grows well in Tennessee. It features dark green leaves and black culms that develop a glossy sheen as they mature. Black Bamboo prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Black Bamboo can grow up to 40-60 feet tall and 8-12 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for creating privacy screens or accenting large areas of your landscape. It's also cold hardy, tolerating temperatures down to 0°F when established.

Running Bamboo Species

While running bamboo can be more invasive than clumping bamboo, some species are well-behaved and can be managed effectively in Tennessee landscapes. Here's a running bamboo species that grows well in the state:

Wamin Bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris 'Wamin')

Wamin Bamboo is a beautiful, fast-growing running bamboo with tall, slender culms and attractive, feathery leaves. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Wamin Bamboo can reach heights of 30-40 feet and widths of 10-15 feet.

To manage Wamin Bamboo's spreading habit, plant it in a contained area or install a root barrier to prevent it from invading other parts of your garden. Keep in mind that this bamboo is less cold hardy than the clumping species mentioned earlier, tolerating temperatures down to 20°F when established.

Incorporating bamboo into your Tennessee landscape can add beauty, privacy, and sustainability to your outdoor spaces. By choosing the right bamboo species for your climate and managing their growth effectively, you can enjoy the many benefits that bamboo offers. So, go ahead and explore the world of bamboo – the perfect addition to your Tennessee garden!