Yellow groove bamboo (Phyllostachys aureosulcata)

Yellow groove bamboo

Features and Characteristics

Phyllostachys aureosulcata, commonly called yellow-groove bamboo, is a running bamboo that is named for the yellow sulcis or groove that appears on culm internodes. Yellow grooves are particularly showy on new culms. Culms are green. Culms grow upright to as much as 25-30’ tall with 2” diameter. However in colder regions such as USDA Zones 5-6, culms may only reach 12-18’ tall. Culms are upright but sometimes geniculate (having a knee-like joint) in the lower parts. Plants naturalize into dense colonies over time. Lanceolate, pointed, olive-green leaves (to 7” long) are hairy at the bases. Leaves are generally evergreen unless killed by sub-zero winter temperatures. This species is native to northeast China, but has been widely cultivated in parts of the U.S. Plants rarely flower.

Genus name comes from the Greek word pyllon meaning leaf and stachys meaning ear of corn or spike in reference to the leafy inflorescence.

Aureo means golden in reference to the sulcis (indented groove) color.

Care and Maintenance

Winter hardy to USDA Zone Plants are best grown in deep, rich, consistently moist soils in full sun. Tolerates some light shade. Consider using an organic-type mulch to help retain moisture and provide summer nutrients. Avoid planting in small areas without first installing root barriers or growing plants in large plastic pots sunk in soil to the rim.

Yellow groove bamboo (Phyllostachys aureosulcata) Requirements

Hardiness zone	4 - 9
Sun light	Full sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problem. Fungal and bacterial leaf spots and rust may occur. Plants may spread into unwanted areas unless root barriers are used.

Uses

Screen. Hedge. Buffer for noise reduction. Backgrounds. Specimen. Excellent winter hardiness.

Yellow groove bamboo (Phyllostachys aureosulcata) Details

Common name	Yellow groove bamboo
Botanical name	Phyllostachys aureosulcata
Plant type	Ornamental grass
Family	Poaceae
Hardiness zone	4 - 9
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Rarely flowers
Flowering period	Rarely flowers
Height	12 - 18 ft.
Width	12 - 25 ft.