Bamboo is a diverse type of grass, belonging to the subfamily Bambusoideae within the Poaceae family. Found globally across tropical, subtropical, and mild temperate regions, this plant is renowned for its rapid growth and versatility, contributing to various ecosystems and human endeavors.
The Two Main Growth Habits
Bamboo varieties are primarily distinguished by their underground rhizome structures, which dictate their growth habits: running bamboo and clumping bamboo.
Running bamboos (monopodial types) have thin rhizomes that extend horizontally underground. This allows new culms to emerge scattered and potentially far from the original plant. Their aggressive spread often requires control measures like root barriers.
Clumping bamboos (sympodial types) have a more contained growth pattern. Their rhizomes are shorter and thicker, growing in a U-shape, forming new culms close to the parent plant. This creates a dense, gradually expanding cluster of stems. Their non-invasive nature makes them easier to manage, often preferred for smaller gardens. While running bamboos are common in temperate climates and are more cold-hardy, clumping bamboos typically thrive in tropical regions.
Beyond Growth Habit: Other Distinguishing Features
Beyond rhizome structure, bamboo species display diverse physical characteristics.
Size varies immensely, from dwarf varieties like Raddiella vanessiae (10–20 millimeters) to towering giants such as Dendrocalamus sinicus (up to 46 meters tall with culms 36 centimeters thick). Culms vary in diameter, color (green, black, yellow, striped), and texture, sometimes having a white powdery coating.
Bamboo stems have a segmented appearance due to distinct nodes and internodes, with varying lengths and patterns. Most culms are hollow, but some species have solid stems. Leaves differ in size, shape, and variegation; typical lengths range from 3 to 6 inches, though some species like Indocalamus tessellatus can have leaves up to 26 inches long. Leaf shapes can be longitudinal, lanceolate, oblong, or triangular, with some varieties displaying green, white, or yellow striped patterns.
Bamboo’s adaptability extends to its cold hardiness, with species tolerating temperatures from 20°F down to -20°F. Running bamboos are generally more cold-tolerant than clumping varieties. Bamboo has also evolved adaptations to thrive in diverse habitats, from humid rainforests to arid deserts. These include efficient water conservation, deep root systems, and waxy leaf coatings to reduce water loss.
How Many Species Exist? A Look at Bamboo Diversity
Bamboo diversity is vast, with botanical classifications continually evolving. Currently, there are estimated to be over 115 to 128 genera and 1,400 to 1,700 identified species worldwide. Ongoing botanical research frequently leads to new discoveries or reclassifications, making an exact count challenging.
Classification often relies on detailed morphological characteristics of rhizomes, culms, and leaves. This immense diversity highlights that “types” of bamboo encompass more than just a few varieties. From growth habits to physical appearances and environmental tolerances, bamboo demonstrates a remarkable range of forms adapted to various ecological niches globally.