Black Bamboo Hedge (Phyllostachys nigra)

Black Bamboo Hedge Plant Description

Phyllostachys nigra, commonly known as Black Bamboo, is an evergreen plant that grows remarkably quickly and features striking black canes (creamy-green in their first year) which contrast beautifully with its lush green foliage. It is a popular choice for creating tall hedges due to its rapid growth and exotic, oriental appearance. In recent years, Black Bamboo has become a sought-after element in modern garden design for its distinctive aesthetic and ability to create a calming, tranquil environment with its arching growth, subtle movement, and fluttering leaves.

This variety of Black Bamboo is classified as a 'running' bamboo, characterised by its spreading roots and attractive arching habit. Due to its running nature, which allows its roots to spread rapidly depending on soil conditions, Phyllostachys nigra can be somewhat invasive. It is best planted in areas where it has room to spread, although root growth can be effectively managed by planting in a pot or container that is twice the size of the root ball, even if underground. Black Bamboo can also tolerate slightly drier soil, although it will seek out moisture if necessary.

Under optimal conditions of moist soil and a warm climate, Phyllostachys nigra can reach heights of up to 6 metres. To support its growth, it is advisable to plant it slightly below ground level (about an inch or two) to create a small depression around the canes that can retain rainwater.

Black Bamboo may take a year or two to fully establish and should be well-watered during this period. It is recommended to feed the plant every alternate year in late spring, once the first shoots have reached their full height. It thrives in full sun or semi-shade and can grow approximately 60-90 cm per year.

As an alternative to Phyllostachys nigra, we recommend Umbrella Bamboo, a tall, clumping variety with a flowing habit and denser foliage, making it ideal for screening purposes.

Given that Black Bamboo is a fast-growing species, regular pruning is essential to maintain the desired effect. In spring, any unwanted or damaged canes should be cut back to ground level, and new shoots should be pruned to match the established height of the plants.

For general hedge maintenance, pruning should be carried out twice annually: once in early June and again in late September. It is crucial to prune at the appropriate times to avoid removing healthy, actively growing shoots.

Further Information

Our recommended planting densities for each size and root type are listed in the product grid. These should be used as a guide when considering the time you are willing to wait for your hedge to achieve its full appearance. As a general indication, bare root plants can be spaced at 3 to 7 per metre, while cell-grown plants can be spaced between 4 and 6 per metre. For higher densities, consider planting in a double staggered row or a zig-zag pattern.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £7.99 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £14.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £60 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.