Fargesia papyrifera

Description

Fargesia papyrifera or Borinda papyrifera as it used be be known is a fabulous clump forming bamboo  still hard to find but worthy of a place in most gardens. With the most beautiful powdery green-blue colour to the new canes and persistant culm sheaths, the bamboos protective covering to the growing stems, Fargesia papyrifera is a talking point whenever seen. Originating for the mountain slopes of Yunnan in China where conditions in winter can mean temperatures drop as low as minus 12 degrees centrigrade and rainfall is high ideally suits this Fargesia to cultivation here in the U.K. In the wild it can reach 6 or more metres tall but generally levels off at around 3-4 metres here, the canes are clothed in relatively large deep green leaves which gently arch under the weight of the foliage.

As with all Fargesia and Borinda these bamboos prefer rich fertile moisture retentive but not waterlogged soils so always add plenty of organic compost to the planting area and keep an eye watering until established.

A spectacular bamboo suitable for a range of uses from a specimen or even as an exotic screen planted in groups. Best planted in part-sun in a not too exposed position.