Fargesia robusta

Fargesia robusta is a stunning clumping bamboo known for its upright growth and lush green foliage. This non-invasive variety thrives in a range of conditions, making it a perfect choice for both residential and commercial landscapes. With a mature height of upwards 15 feet, Fargesia robusta creates an elegant perimeter privacy screen or a beautiful focal point in gardens.

Height:

  • Upwards to 16’ if given proper dimensions to expand into. The top 2-3’ of the canes taper and eventually arch under the weight of leaves.

Light and water requirements:

  • Prefers dappled mid-day summer shade, but can tolerate full Western Washington sun and heat as well as shaded locations.

Growth Habit:

  • New shoots appear in early spring and late summer, elongate to full height and develop branches and leaves.

  • A pot of robusta planted in the ground can expand a foot or so in annual circumference. A 6 foot plot is a recommended minimum for uncrowded, healthy growth.

  • Mowing and/or line trimming is an effective means to curtail spread. Planting in a one foot mound of soil can further help maintain the shape of the grove. Root barrier is still a strong consideration for protecting property lines.

  • New canes exhibit a white, papery sheath that protects the forming branches, creating a checkered effect.

3-4 year old grove of Fargesia robusta

Grove of Fargesia robusta, 3-4 years of growth

Spacing and planting considerations:

  • A single pot of robusta can eventually provide 6’+ of lateral privacy at the base. Canes have an outward arch providing additional canopy span.

  • To create a continuous hedge, space new plantings 3’ - 5’.

  • Robusta can be shaped and hedged with a conventional hedge trimmer.