Common Running Bamboo Species in Pennsylvania

Types of Running Bamboo Found in Pennsylvania: What to Be Aware Of

Bamboo is a fast-growing, resilient plant that has found its way into landscapes across Pennsylvania. While beautiful and functional, many species of running bamboo can quickly spread, causing property damage and becoming difficult to control. Most of the running bamboo varieties found in Pennsylvania belong to the Phyllostachys genus, known for their aggressive underground rhizomes. Below, we explore the most common running bamboo species in Pennsylvania, their characteristics, and what you need to know about each type.

Common Running Bamboo Species in Pennsylvania

Phyllostachys aureosulcata (Yellow Groove Bamboo)

This is one of the most prevalent and cold-hardy running bamboo species found in Pennsylvania.

• Height: Typically grows 25-45 feet tall
• Culm Characteristics: Green with a distinctive yellow groove running along the internodes
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to -10°F
• Growth Habit: Extremely aggressive spreader, requiring barriers for containment
• Best Use: Windbreaks, privacy screens, erosion control

Phyllostachys nuda

A very cold-hardy and fast-spreading bamboo species commonly found in Pennsylvania landscapes.

• Height: Grows 30-40 feet tall
• Culm Characteristics: Dark green culms with a smooth texture
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to -20°F, making it one of the toughest varieties
• Growth Habit: Spreads aggressively underground; proper containment is necessary
• Best Use: Cold climates, privacy screens, and landscaping

Phyllostachys aurea (Golden Bamboo or Fish Pole Bamboo)

A highly adaptable and widely planted bamboo species, often used for privacy hedges.

• Height: Typically reaches 15-30 feet tall
• Culm Characteristics: Thick, golden-yellow culms that can develop compressed internodes at the base
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to -5°F
• Growth Habit: Moderately aggressive; requires containment measures
• Best Use: Privacy screens, decorative landscapes, pole production

Phyllostachys bissetii

One of the best bamboos for cold climates, known for its dense foliage and hardiness.

• Height: Grows 20-30 feet tall
• Culm Characteristics: Dark green culms that retain their color in winter
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to -15°F
• Growth Habit: Fast-spreading, requires root barriers
• Best Use: Privacy screens, windbreaks, soil stabilization

Phyllostachys atrovaginata (Incense Bamboo)

A unique running bamboo with fragrant culms and extreme cold tolerance.

• Height: Can grow 30-50 feet tall
• Culm Characteristics: Thick-walled culms with a natural wax coating, making them water-resistant
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to -10°F
• Growth Habit: Spreads aggressively if left unchecked
• Best Use: Privacy hedges, waterlogged areas, erosion control

Pseudosasa japonica (Japanese Arrow Bamboo)

Unlike the towering Phyllostachys species, this running bamboo has a different aesthetic and growth habit.

• Height: Grows 10-20 feet tall
• Culm Characteristics: Thin, dark green culms with persistent sheaths
• Leaf Structure: Broader leaves compared to most running bamboos, giving it a tropical appearance
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to 5°F
• Growth Habit: Slower spreading than Phyllostachys but still a running bamboo
• Best Use: Low-growing privacy hedges, ornamental plantings, erosion control

How to Control or Eradicate Running Bamboo

Running bamboo can become an invasive problem if not properly managed. Whether you want to remove an existing bamboo grove or install containment measures, it’s essential to use the right methods to prevent future spread.

To learn more about how to eradicate or control these types of bamboo, visit New Jersey Bamboo Landscaping.