Golden Bamboo Hedge (Phyllostachys aurea)

Golden Bamboo Hedge Plant Description

Golden Bamboo (Phyllostachys aurea), also known as Fishpole Bamboo, is an evergreen bamboo with upright canes that change colour as they mature. New growth starts green before developing yellow and golden tones, while the foliage remains green throughout the year.

Its tall, upright habit makes Golden Bamboo a useful choice for creating a leafy hedge or screen. The combination of green foliage and golden canes gives the planting plenty of colour and movement, particularly as the leaves move in the breeze.

Phyllostachys aurea is a running bamboo that spreads through underground rhizomes. It can stay relatively contained in poor or dry soil, but may spread more readily in warm, moist and favourable conditions.

This makes its planting position an important consideration, especially near boundaries or other areas of the garden. A suitable root barrier can be used to help restrict its spread.

Golden Bamboo is fast growing and can add around 60–90cm of growth each year in suitable conditions. When used as a hedge, it can be maintained at around 2–4m with regular trimming.

For healthy growth, plant in full sun or partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. A sheltered position is preferable, particularly where the plants may be exposed to cold, drying winds.

Pruning Advice

Golden Bamboo can be trimmed to keep the hedge at the height and shape you want. If the canes have grown too tall, trim the tops back to the required height.

As the hedge becomes fuller, some of the older canes can be removed from the base to create more space and show off the golden stems. Damaged or unwanted canes can also be cut back when needed.

Golden Bamboo spreads through underground rhizomes, so check around the hedge regularly and remove any unwanted shoots that appear outside the planting area. A suitable root barrier can also be used to help keep the bamboo contained.

Further Information

Golden Bamboo is best planted where it has enough room to establish and develop into a full hedge. Planting at the recommended spacing allows the plants to grow together over time without being overcrowded.

Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist during dry periods while the plants establish. Golden Bamboo prefers moist but well-drained soil and grows well in full sun or partial shade.

As Phyllostachys aurea is a running bamboo, consider installing a suitable root barrier if you want to limit its spread. Regularly checking for new shoots outside the main planting area will also help keep the hedge under control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Golden Bamboo fast growing?

Yes. Golden Bamboo is a fast-growing bamboo and can put on around 60–90cm of growth per year in suitable conditions.

How tall does Golden Bamboo grow?

For hedging, Golden Bamboo can be maintained at around 2–4m with regular pruning. If left to grow freely, Phyllostachys aurea can reach greater heights, with the RHS giving a potential height of 4–8m.

Is Golden Bamboo invasive?

Golden Bamboo is a running bamboo, so it can spread through underground rhizomes. It may remain relatively contained in poor or dry soil but can spread in warm, moist and favourable conditions. A root barrier and regular monitoring can help keep its growth under control.

How do you stop Golden Bamboo spreading?

A suitable root barrier can be installed when planting to help restrict the spread of underground rhizomes. It is also useful to check around the hedge regularly and remove unwanted shoots before they become established outside the planting area.

How do you prune Golden Bamboo?

Trim the tops of the canes when the hedge becomes taller than required. Older or unwanted canes can be removed from the base to reduce congestion, while damaged growth can be cut back when necessary.

Does Golden Bamboo stay green all year?

Golden Bamboo is evergreen, so its foliage remains throughout the year. The canes themselves change colour as they mature, developing yellow and golden tones from their original green.

Delivery & Returns

We offer a range of delivery options depending on the size and type of plant ordered.

Standard Boxes: Bare root plants up to 1.2m and pots up to 7.5L. Free on orders over £100 or £7.99.

Tall Boxes: Bare root plants over 1.2m. Free on orders over £100 or £14.99.

Pallet Delivery: Root balls and larger pots, including 10L+ plants. Free on orders over £350 or £60.

Pleached Trees: Free on orders over £1,500 or £450.

Please check the delivery information provided with your order for the most suitable option.