Phyllostachys aureosulcata

Phyllostachys aureosulcata has dark green canes with a yellow stripe above each branch in the sulcus, the opposite of the 'Spectabilis' variety. P. aureosulcata and its varieties are fast growers, often reaching their maximum heights within five years of being planted. Phyllostachys aureosulcata forms excellent hedges, screens and windbreaks due to its robust foliage and low branches. The lower portions of the culms often zigzag back and forth, as most other varieties in the species. It is also one of the earliest shooters in the genus, usually sending up its largest shoots during April in Southern Oregon. The shoots are covered with bright purple culm sheaths and can turn red with direct sunlight. The red color will often last throughout the entire season, especially on the thinner shoots.

This is an excellent ornamental bamboo for its cold hardiness. It establishes rapidly, and will be a vigorous runner in warm climates. The culms are a dark green with yellow banding in the groove. They have the characteristic of bending sharply on the lower part of some shoots. One grower says, "zig-zag kinks on random culms." Remove the lower branches to expose this distinctive trait. Usually to 15 or 20' but can reach 45'. Likes full sun.