Fargesia dracocephala ‘Rufa’
Clumping bamboo also is called ‘non-running bamboo” to underline the fact that it is not invasive. Although the evergreen plant can grow into clumps up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide, it spreads gradually, usually no more than 6 inches per year.
Hardy in zones 5-9, ‘Rufa’ means “red-haired” and features rust-colored sheaths on its blue-green 1/2-inch diameter stems. So it sometimes also is known as ‘Sunset Glow’ bamboo. Seldom flowering, it is grown for the graceful, weeping look of its foliage.
Additional Information:
| Latin Name: | Fargesia dracocephala ‘Rufa’ |
| Plant Type: | Clumping Bamboo |
| Shrub Type: | Evergreen |
| Exposure: | Sun or Shade |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Mature Height: | 10 Feet |
| Mature Width: | 8 Feet |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate |
| Habit: | Clumping |
| Hardiness Zone: | Zone 5-9 |
| Water Needs: | Average |
| Maintenance: | Easy |
| Pruning Time: | Late Winter |
| Additional attribute: | |
| Year-round Interest | |
| Heat Tolerant | |
| Wind Tolerant | |
| Landscape Uses: | |
| Border, Hedge, Woodland Garden |
Culture:
Clumping bamboo prefers rich, acidic, moist and well-drained soil, preferably in a location where it receives sun in the morning and shade during the afternoon and is protected from winter winds. However, it will tolerate full shade too and also adapts well to container culture. Mulch it to protect its roots in winter and to keep its soil evenly moist.
A favorite food of the giant panda and a natural for Asian or Zen gardens, this shade plant will lend an Oriental aura to your privacy screening.
