If you like the look of modern then plant of the week – Fargesia murielae might be what you are after. The elegant lanceolate-shaped evergreen leaves provide style all year long. Some bamboos are invasive, this is not one of them. Plant it in a border or in a container. The display will look glorious either way.
Plant of the week – Fargesia murielae
Also known as umbrella bamboo this plant is tolerant of clay and loam soil with acid, alkaline or neutral soil pH-values, that is moist but well-draining. It thrives in sun and partial shade. Substantial part shade I would say as I’ve seen it doing well in that condition.
Some sources reckon that Fargesia murielae works in windy locations. Not in my experience. They may not die, although mine did, but in northern European winters they will take on a very miserable appearance. It’s not a good look.
Native to China it’s an excellent plant for hedging and screens (in not so windy conditions). It grows to about 4m in height and a width of about 1.5m in 5-10 years. In spite of its sleek, elegant and exotic look it works in a range of garden design environments. From cottage, to Mediterranean to city courtyards. Remove weak, dead, damaged or spindly stems in spring and thin to show off stems to best effect. Cut out any flowering shoots promptly to discourage more from forming.
