Sasa

This group of Bamboos is native to the Orient. They are dwarf and low-growing Bamboos that are hardy in sheltered locations as far North as New York. Bamboos need moist soil at all times, especially in times of dry weather. They are great for planting in wetlands and near stream and riverbanks. S. chrysantha grows up to 6 feet high and is variegated with yellow. S. senanensis var. nebulosa grows up to 8 feet and has purple stems.

Pot Cultivation

Spring is the best time to plant these Bamboos. They should be grown in moist, rich soil. They will flourish in light or moderately heavy loam. They can be grown in full sun but will do much better in light shade. In the spring, the oldest shoots or those with dying tops, should be completely cut out. After pruning, they should be washed off with a hose. Old plants will benefit from a top-dressing of manure once in a while. The best canes that have been cut out at pruning time can be trimmed and used as stakes for the garden.

Propagation

They can be increased by division in the spring. Pieces of stem can also be set down in a propagating case in the spring to produce shoots from the joints of the canes. Bamboos die a year or two after flowering, which is only every 30 or 40 years, so gather seeds on flowering plants.

S. tessellata

VARIETIES

• S. chrysantha;
• S. senanensis & var. nebulosa;
• S. tessellata;
• S. Veitchii.