Types of Bamboo in the UK

How Many Types of Bamboo Are There?

Bamboo is an incredibly diverse plant, with over 1,400 species thriving in various climates across the globe, from tropical to temperate regions. While bamboo is native to countries in Asia and South America, it has found its way into gardens and landscapes around the world, including the UK. 

However, in the UK, the focus narrows to two primary categories: running bamboo and clumping bamboo. These two types differ significantly, particularly in their growth habits and potential to become invasive. 

Running bamboo is notorious for its aggressive spread, often causing significant problems for landowners due to its invasive nature. Its rapid growth can lead to legal disputes, particularly if the plant begins to encroach on neighbouring properties. On the other hand, clumping bamboo is generally considered non-invasive, thanks to its more controlled growth pattern, making it a more suitable choice for gardens.

Types of Bamboo Plants

Understanding the difference between these two types is crucial for anyone considering bamboo for their property. 

Running bamboo has a growth habit that can quickly get out of control. Its underground root system, known as rhizomes, extends far and wide, often leading to the plant resurfacing in unexpected locations. This can cause a range of issues, from disrupting nearby plants to damaging structures like fences and even building foundations.

In contrast, clumping bamboo grows in a more orderly fashion. Instead of spreading far from the original plant, it tends to form tight clusters, making it easier to manage. Although it still spreads underground, its growth is much slower and less aggressive, reducing the risk of it becoming a nuisance.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has recently updated its guidelines on bamboo, advising property owners on how to manage these plants effectively. If you find bamboo becoming problematic on your property, you typically have two options: bring it back under control or remove it entirely. This decision often hinges on understanding the plant’s rhizome system, which plays a critical role in its invasiveness.

The Role of Bamboo Rhizomes

Rhizomes are the underground stems that allow bamboo to spread. All types of bamboo use rhizomes to grow, but the nature of these rhizomes differs between running and clumping bamboo:

• Running bamboo (monopodial) produces long, horizontal rhizomes that can extend several metres from the original plant. This allows it to spread rapidly, often beyond the boundaries of your garden, making it difficult to control. These rhizomes can remain hidden underground, making it challenging to determine the extent of the spread until new shoots emerge, sometimes in unexpected places.
• In contrast, clumping bamboo (sympodial) has shorter rhizomes that grow in a more contained manner. These rhizomes tend to stay closer to the plant’s original location, resulting in a dense clump of shoots rather than a sprawling mass. While still capable of spreading, clumping bamboo’s growth is far more manageable and less likely to cause significant issues.

Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right type of bamboo for your garden and avoiding the problems associated with its invasive nature.

Running Bamboo Types Explained

Running bamboo is distinguished by its aggressive spreading behaviour, largely driven by its extensive underground rhizome system. This growth pattern can lead to challenges in managing and containing the bamboo once it's established.

_{Key Characteristics of Running Bamboo}

Running bamboo spreads through its rhizomes, which can extend several metres from the original plant, making it difficult to control. Unlike clumping bamboo, which remains more contained, running bamboo can quickly cover large areas and impact surrounding properties.

Did You Know? Some running bamboo varieties can spread up to 30 metres before reshooting above ground, potentially affecting multiple properties if left unmanaged.

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1. Phyllostachys

• Characteristics: Phyllostachys is one of the most common running bamboos, known for its rapid growth and height that can reach up to 7 metres. Its rhizomes are particularly aggressive, allowing it to cover large areas quickly.
• Impact: The extensive root system of Phyllostachys can lead to issues with neighbouring properties and requires diligent management to prevent encroachment.
  

2. Sasaella

• Characteristics: Sasaella is a smaller running bamboo, typically growing to about 2-3 metres. It has a less aggressive growth habit compared to other running bamboos but still has a spreading rhizome system.
• Impact: While it doesn’t grow as large as some varieties, Sasaella can still spread considerably, making regular maintenance important.
  

3. Pseudosasa

• Characteristics: Pseudosasa is known for its graceful, arching stems and reaches heights of around 3-4 metres. Its rhizomes are vigorous, enabling it to spread rapidly.
• Impact: Despite its ornamental appeal, Pseudosasa can become invasive if not managed properly, necessitating ongoing monitoring.
  

4. Sinobambusa

• Characteristics: Sinobambusa grows to about 6 metres and is recognised for its robust, upright growth. Its rhizome system supports extensive spreading.
• Impact: Due to its potential to form dense clusters, Sinobambusa requires careful management to avoid impacting nearby areas.
  

5. Bashania

• Characteristics: Bashania typically grows to 4-5 metres and has a strong rhizome system, though it is less aggressive than some other types.
• Impact: While not the most invasive, Bashania still needs to be monitored to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.

Clumping Bamboo Types Explained

Clumping bamboo is characterised by its more contained growth pattern compared to running bamboo. Unlike its spreading counterpart, clumping bamboo develops tight clusters and is less likely to become invasive. This makes it a more manageable option for gardeners and property owners who want to enjoy bamboo without the risk of it overgrowing.

_{Key Characteristics of Clumping Bamboo}

Clumping bamboo grows in tight clusters from a central point, with rhizomes that spread more slowly and in a more controlled manner. This type of bamboo is generally easier to manage and less likely to affect neighbouring properties.

Did You Know? Clumping bamboo can create a dense, decorative screen that is ideal for privacy in gardens, but it won’t spread beyond its initial planting area unless encouraged.

_{Common Types of Clumping Bamboo
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1. Bambusa

• Characteristics: Bambusa, or “Bamboo Palm,” is known for its attractive, bushy appearance and can grow up to 6 metres tall. It forms dense clumps and has a slower spreading rhizome system.
• Impact: Bambusa is ideal for garden screens or ornamental planting due to its non-invasive nature, making it a popular choice for controlled garden environments.
  

2. Fargesia

• Characteristics: Fargesia is a smaller clumping bamboo, typically growing to about 2-4 metres. It is prized for its compact growth and delicate, feathery foliage.
• Impact: As one of the least invasive types, Fargesia is well-suited for smaller gardens and containers, providing an attractive and manageable bamboo option.
  

3. Schizostachyum

• Characteristics: Schizostachyum features elegant, slender stems and grows to approximately 4-5 metres. It forms tight clusters and is less aggressive in its growth.
• Impact: This bamboo variety is often used in decorative settings and for creating garden features, as it maintains its shape and does not spread aggressively.
  

4. Dendrocalamus

• Characteristics: Dendrocalamus can reach heights of 10 metres or more and is known for its robust, tall stems. It grows in compact clumps and is less likely to spread uncontrollably.
• Impact: While it can be larger and more dramatic in appearance, Dendrocalamus is still a controlled bamboo choice, suitable for larger spaces where its size can be accommodated.

Managing Clumping Bamboo

Although clumping bamboo is generally less problematic than running bamboo, it still requires some maintenance to ensure it does not outgrow its intended space. Regular pruning and monitoring are recommended to keep it in check.

Don’t Let Your Bamboo Run Away

When bamboo becomes invasive, it can quickly escalate into a serious issue, affecting not just your property but potentially surrounding areas as well. Managing bamboo on your own can be challenging and often ineffective.

_{Why Professional Help is Essential}

• Expertise: Professionals have the knowledge to identify the extent of the infestation and apply the most effective bamboo removal methods.
• Specialised Equipment: They use tools designed for thorough removal of both above-ground and underground parts of the bamboo.
• Long-Term Solutions: Professionals offer strategies to prevent future bamboo growth and manage any remaining issues.

_{Avoid DIY Pitfalls}

DIY attempts may leave remnants that can quickly regrow, leading to more extensive problems and higher costs later. Professional services ensure that bamboo is removed completely and managed properly, saving you time and preventing future issues.

Act now! If bamboo is becoming a problem on your property, seeking professional help is crucial. Contact an expert today or book a survey to effectively address and manage the issue.