Phyllostachys bissetii: The Beautiful but Aggressive Bamboo You Should Think Twice About
If you’ve been dreaming of adding some dramatic height and lush greenery to your landscape, you’ve probably considered bamboo. Phyllostachys bissetii, commonly known as Bisset’s bamboo or David Bisset bamboo, is one species that often catches gardeners’ eyes with its impressive stature and evergreen appeal. But before you fall head over heels for this towering beauty, there are some important things you need to know.
What is Phyllostachys bissetii?
Phyllostachys bissetii is a running bamboo species that hails from northeastern China. This fast-growing graminoid (that’s fancy talk for grass-like plant) can reach impressive heights of 15-25 feet, creating a living wall of green that stays lush year-round. Its culms (bamboo stems) are graceful and strong, topped with dense, feathery foliage that rustles beautifully in the breeze.
Native Status and Geographic Distribution
This bamboo is native to China, which means it’s not naturally occurring in North American ecosystems. While it has been widely planted across temperate regions worldwide, including much of the United States, its non-native status is something to consider when planning your landscape.
The Good, The Bad, and The Invasive
Here’s where things get complicated. Phyllostachys bissetii has some genuinely appealing qualities, but it also comes with significant drawbacks that every gardener should understand.
The Appeal
- Creates excellent privacy screens and windbreaks
- Fast growth means quick results
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round interest
- Tolerates a wide range of growing conditions
- Hardy in USDA zones 5-10
The Concerns
- Aggressive spreading through underground rhizomes
- Can quickly escape intended planting areas
- Difficult to remove once established
- May crowd out native plants
- Requires constant maintenance to control
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re still considering this bamboo despite its aggressive nature, here’s what it needs to thrive:
- Light: Full sun to partial shade (performs best in full sun)
- Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with consistent moisture
- Water: Regular watering, especially during establishment
- Climate: Hardy in zones 5-10, tolerates cold better than many bamboos
Planting and Maintenance Tips
If you decide to move forward with Phyllostachys bissetii, proper installation and maintenance are absolutely critical:
- Install root barriers: Use thick plastic or metal barriers extending 24-30 inches deep around the entire planting area
- Regular monitoring: Check monthly for escaping shoots and remove immediately
- Annual maintenance: Thin overcrowded culms and remove any growth outside designated areas
- Consider containers: Large containers can help contain spread while still providing screening
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
Unlike many native plants, bamboos like Phyllostachys bissetii offer limited benefits to local wildlife and pollinators. Bamboos flower infrequently (sometimes decades apart), so they don’t provide reliable nectar sources. While birds may occasionally nest in dense bamboo groves, the thick growth can actually create monocultures that reduce biodiversity.
Better Alternatives to Consider
Before committing to this potentially problematic bamboo, consider these native alternatives that can provide similar screening effects:
- American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana): Native small tree with year-round interest
- Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana): Evergreen native with wildlife benefits
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier species): Multi-season beauty with flowers, fruit, and fall color
- Viburnums: Various native species offer screening with flowers and berries
The Bottom Line
Phyllostachys bissetii is undeniably beautiful and fast-growing, but its aggressive nature makes it a risky choice for most home landscapes. While it’s not officially listed as invasive everywhere, its behavior certainly fits the pattern. If you’re absolutely set on bamboo, consider clumping varieties instead, or better yet, explore the wonderful world of native plants that can provide similar benefits without the ecological concerns.
Remember, gardening is about creating spaces that are both beautiful and responsible. Sometimes the most sustainable choice is also the most rewarding one in the long run!
