Bambusa lako

Also known as Black Timor bamboo, Bambusa lako is yet another true collectors bamboo.  New culms are green that fade to a black, almost dark purple color with green stripes.  A semi open clumper, this tropical bamboo will reach heights of 45 feet with 3 inch diameter culms.  Culms produced will grow erect with a light arch at the top. Bad thing with this bamboo is it is truly tropical, and has a minimum temperature rating of 27 degrees F.  However, much like Bambusa vulgaris vitatta, if it dies back to the ground new culms will still be bigger and larger than the previous years.  This one also propagates readily using culm cuttings.

Here at my house in Jacksonville FL I had grown this in a pot for several years, and put it into the ground with hopes my micro climate on the creek keeps it from freezing in the colder weather.  So far it is doing well and enjoying it’s current home.