Bamboo is botanically classified as a grass, belonging to the family Poaceae, despite its often towering, woody appearance. It is scientifically categorized under the subfamily Bambusoideae, and its hollow, jointed stems, known as culms, are characteristic of grasses. Bamboo’s rapid growth and lush, evergreen foliage have made it a popular choice for landscaping throughout the state, especially for creating privacy screens and hedges.
California’s Diverse Climate Suitability
California’s varied geography, ranging from mild coastal areas to arid deserts and cold mountain regions, allows a wide selection of bamboo species to thrive. The majority of the state, particularly the mild coastal regions and the Central Valley, offers adequate conditions for growth due to the lack of severe or prolonged freezing temperatures.
The primary limitations for successful bamboo cultivation are cold tolerance and water availability. Higher elevations and inland areas may require hardier species, such as some Phyllostachys varieties. While established bamboo can be somewhat drought-tolerant, consistent, deep watering is needed, especially during the first two years of growth due to the state’s frequent drought conditions. Bamboo prefers fertile, slightly acidic, and well-drained soil, and will not fare well in constantly saturated conditions.
Choosing the Right Bamboo Variety
The selection of a bamboo variety hinges on understanding its growth habit, which is categorized into two main types: clumping and running. Clumping bamboo, such as Bambusa and Fargesia species, is considered non-invasive because its rhizomes grow in dense, compact clusters. These varieties slowly expand outward only a few inches per year and are ideal for smaller gardens or containers, typically requiring no root barrier. For instance, Bambusa oldhamii (Giant Timber Bamboo) is a common clumping variety in Southern California, prized for its large size and dense foliage.
Running bamboo, which includes most Phyllostachys species, is highly invasive because it sends out long, horizontal rhizomes that can travel many feet underground. Running varieties are often chosen for creating quick, extensive privacy screens because they fill in spaces faster than clumpers. However, their aggressive growth habit means they require careful planning and containment to prevent them from spreading into neighboring areas. Examples that thrive in California include Phyllostachys aurea (Golden Bamboo) and Phyllostachys vivax, both known for their heat tolerance and vigorous growth.
Essential Management Practices
Responsible cultivation, especially for running bamboo, requires proactive management to prevent invasiveness. The most effective containment method is installing a physical root barrier made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic. This barrier should be at least 60-mil thick, installed vertically to a depth of 26 to 34 inches, and angled slightly outward to redirect the rhizomes upward.
The top of the barrier must extend 2 to 3 inches above the soil surface to catch escaping rhizomes. Regular maintenance is necessary, even with a barrier, which includes annual or bi-annual root pruning with a sharp spade. For all bamboo types in California’s arid climate, deep watering is necessary, with most species requiring about one inch of water per week. Applying a layer of organic mulch helps retain soil moisture and keeps the roots protected.
Fertilization with a balanced, slow-release product in the spring and fall helps stimulate healthy growth. Container planting is another simple containment method for running bamboo, though it requires more frequent watering and eventual root pruning or repotting.