Himalayacalamus hookerianus (Blue Bamboo)

Attractive wherever it grows, Himalayacalamus hookerianus (Blue Bamboo) is a graceful and elegant, evergreen clump-forming bamboo with tall and slender, striking blue canes complemented by delicate foliage. Emerald green at first, the culms, up to 1 in. wide (2.5 cm), are covered with a thick glaucous wax coating creating a blue-gray effect. They become temporarily flushed dark purple and mature to yellow-orange. In sunny locations, the culms take on a reddish cast on the side facing the sun. Long and narrow, up to 7 in. in length (18 cm), the leaves are bright green on the upper surface, and matte green beneath. Easy to grow, this non-invasive bamboo forms compact clumps and is an ideal subject for the woodland garden. Great for a hedge planting or for large containers too. In the Himalayas, the culms are regularly harvested for weaving into baskets and mats. Hardiness: 32 to 23ºF (0 to -5ºC).

• Grows up to 10-20 ft. tall (3-6 m).
• A light shade to part shade lover, it is best grown in fertile, moist soils. Tolerates sun, but the leaves will curl up readily in strong sunlight. Blue Bamboo does not tolerate high heat and humidity. Provide a sheltered, wind-free, almost frost-free location.
• Virtually disease free. Keep an eye out for slugs.
• Remove weak, dead, damaged, or spindly stems in spring and thin to show off stems to the best effect. Cut out any flowering shoots promptly to discourage more from forming.
• Native to Bhutan, Nepal, Sikkim, India