30 Popular Types Of Bamboo Pictorial Guide

Bamboo is a remarkable plant that has been utilized for various purposes throughout human history. This fast-growing and versatile plant is a member of the grass family and is found in many regions around the world, including Asia, Africa, South America, and the United States. Bamboo is known for its sustainability, durability, and versatility and has become increasingly popular as a sustainable material for various applications.

Bamboo is a renewable resource that grows incredibly fast, making it an ideal plant for sustainable production. In fact, some bamboo species can grow up to 91 cm (35 inches) in just one day! Bamboo also has a shallow root system that doesn’t disturb the soil and can grow on degraded land. This means that bamboo cultivation can help prevent soil erosion and deforestation while providing a source of income for farmers.

One of the most significant uses of bamboo is for construction. The strength and durability of bamboo make it an excellent building material for everything from homes and bridges to furniture and flooring. Bamboo’s strength comes from the structure of its fibers, which are composed of long, interlocking strands that make it stronger than many hardwoods. Bamboo can also be treated to make it resistant to pests, fire, and moisture.

In addition to construction, bamboo has many other uses. It has been used for centuries to make paper, textiles, and musical instruments. Bamboo shoots, the edible young sprouts of the bamboo plant, are a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes and are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Bamboo charcoal is also used for cooking, purifying water, and improving indoor air quality.

Bamboo is also becoming increasingly popular as a sustainable alternative to traditional materials. It is used in the production of eco-friendly products like toothbrushes, utensils, and clothing. Bamboo clothing is popular because it is breathable, soft, and naturally anti-bacterial. It is also biodegradable, making it a more sustainable alternative to synthetic fabrics.

Despite its many benefits, bamboo is not without its challenges. The rapid growth of bamboo can sometimes lead to invasive species that can cause ecological damage. Additionally, bamboo production can be labor-intensive, and workers may face health and safety risks during harvesting and processing. There are also concerns about the use of chemicals and fertilizers in bamboo cultivation.

Overall, bamboo is an incredibly versatile and sustainable plant that has the potential to revolutionize various industries. Its strength, durability, and renewability make it an ideal building material, while its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of other applications. As more people become aware of the benefits of bamboo, it is likely that we will see more products made from this remarkable plant in the future.

Here are the 30 Popular Types of Bamboo Pictorial Guide:

Moso Bamboo (Phyllostachys Edulis)

Moso Bamboo (Phyllostachys Edulis) is a large species of bamboo native to China and is known for its fast growth rate and tall stature, reaching heights of up to 30 meters. It has thick, dark green stems with distinct nodes and produces large, edible shoots that are a staple in Asian cuisine. Moso bamboo is also highly valued for its strong and durable wood, which is used in construction, furniture, and flooring. Due to its rapid growth and versatility, Moso Bamboo is increasingly cultivated as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwoods.

Giant Bamboo (Dendrocalamus Giganteus)

Giant Bamboo (Dendrocalamus Giganteus) is a massive species of bamboo native to Southeast Asia and is known for its impressive size and strength. It can grow up to 40 meters tall and 30 centimeters in diameter, making it one of the largest bamboo species in the world. Its sturdy, light-colored stems are used in construction, furniture, and handicrafts, while its leaves are used as animal fodder.

Giant Bamboo is also a popular ornamental plant due to its striking appearance and ability to create dense privacy screens. Although it is a slow-growing species, giant bamboo is highly valued for its strength, durability, and versatility.

Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys Nigra)

Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys Nigra) is a visually striking species of bamboo native to China and is known for its unique black culms (stems). The culms turn black after about three years, creating a dramatic contrast with the bright green foliage. It typically grows to about 10 meters tall and is a clumping variety, meaning it doesn’t spread aggressively like some other types of bamboo.

Black Bamboo is often used for landscaping, as a decorative accent or screen, and for making crafts and furniture. It is also a popular choice for gardeners who appreciate its ornamental value and ease of maintenance.

Yellow Groove Bamboo (Phyllostachys Aureosulcata)

The Yellow Groove Bamboo, or Phyllostachys Aureosulcata, is a species of bamboo native to China but widely cultivated in other parts of the world. It is a tall, fast-growing bamboo with green culms that have distinctive yellow grooves. The plant is commonly used as a privacy screen, a windbreak, or an ornamental plant in landscaping. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for its healing properties.

Thorny Bamboo (Bambusa Bambos)

Thorny Bamboo (Bambusa Bambos) is a species of bamboo native to the Indian subcontinent and widely cultivated in other tropical regions. It is a tall, sturdy plant with long, slender, and thorny culms (stems) that can reach up to 30 meters in height. The culms have a diameter of about 10–20 cm and are covered in sharp spines. Thorny Bamboo is commonly used for construction, furniture, and handicrafts, and it is also valued for its edible shoots and medicinal properties.

Buddha Belly Bamboo (Bambusa Ventricosa)

Buddha Belly Bamboo (Bambusa Ventricosa) is a species of bamboo native to China and widely cultivated in other tropical and subtropical regions. It is a medium-sized bamboo, growing up to 12 meters tall, with a distinctively swollen lower internode, giving it the appearance of a “belly” or “potbelly.” The culms (stems) are slender, with a diameter of about 5–10 cm, and are covered in a powdery, bluish-white coating.

Buddha Belly Bamboo is a popular ornamental plant, often grown in containers or as a hedge, and it is also used for handicrafts and furniture.

Clumping Bamboo (Bambusa Multiplex)

Clumping Bamboo (Bambusa Multiplex) is a species of bamboo native to China and widely cultivated in other tropical and subtropical regions. It is a relatively small bamboo, growing up to 5 meters tall, with slender culms (stems) that are 1-2 cm in diameter. Unlike other bamboo species, clumping bamboo grows in tight clusters, or clumps, rather than spreading by runners. The foliage is dense and green, with delicate leaves that provide an attractive backdrop for the graceful culms.

Clumping Bamboo is a popular ornamental plant, often used for hedges, privacy screens, and landscaping, and it is also used for handicrafts and furniture.

Timor Black Bamboo (Gigantochloa Atroviolacea)

Timor Black Bamboo (Gigantochloa Atroviolacea) is a species of bamboo native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia. It is a tall, sturdy plant that can grow up to 20 meters in height and has a diameter of 7-15 cm. The culms (stems) have a blackish-purple color, which gradually turns into a bluish-gray with age. The foliage is dense and green, with slender leaves that grow up to 20 cm in length.

Timor Black Bamboo is a popular ornamental plant and is also used for handicrafts, furniture, and construction. The plant is known for its strength and durability, and it is often used as a building material for bridges, houses, and other structures.

Java Black Bamboo (Gigantochloa Atroviolacea)

Java Black Bamboo (Gigantochloa Atroviolacea) is a species of bamboo native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia. It is a medium-sized bamboo, growing up to 10 meters in height and having a diameter of 5–10 cm. The culms (stems) have a blackish-purple color, which gradually turns into a bluish-gray with age. The foliage is dense and green, with slender leaves that grow up to 20 cm in length.

Java Black Bamboo is a popular ornamental plant and is also used for handicrafts, furniture, and construction. The plant is known for its strength and durability, and it is often used as a building material for bridges, houses, and other structures.

Iron Bamboo (Dendrocalamus Strictus)

Iron Bamboo, also known as Dendrocalamus Strictus, is a large and dense species of bamboo found in the Indian subcontinent. It has sturdy culms (stems) that can reach up to 30 meters in height and 10 cm in diameter, making it a popular choice for construction and furniture making. Its leaves are long and narrow, and its branches grow in clusters near the nodes. The Iron Bamboo is known for its durability and resistance to pests, and it is also valued for its edible shoots and use in traditional medicine.

Hedge Bamboo (Bambusa Multiplex ‘Riviereorum’)

Hedge Bamboo (Bambusa Multiplex ‘Riviereorum’) is a popular ornamental bamboo species that is commonly used as a hedge or screen plant. It is a fast-growing bamboo variety that can reach up to 15 feet in height and 10 feet in width. The plant has slender green culms (stems) that can form dense clumps, and its leaves are long and narrow with a bright green color. Hedge Bamboo is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions and is relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for home gardeners and landscapers.

Malay Dwarf Bamboo (Gigantochloa Levis)

The Malay Dwarf Bamboo, scientifically known as Gigantochloa Levis, is a species of bamboo that is native to Malaysia and other regions of Southeast Asia. It is a small to medium-sized bamboo, with slender culms that grow up to 12 meters tall and 4 centimeters in diameter. Its leaves are small and narrow, with a dark green color.

The Malay Dwarf Bamboo is widely used for various purposes, including construction, furniture-making, and handicrafts. It is also a popular ornamental plant, thanks to its attractive appearance and easy-to-care-for nature.

Arrow Bamboo (Pseudosasa Japonica)

Arrow Bamboo (Pseudosasa Japonica) is a species of bamboo native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is a medium-sized bamboo, growing up to 4 meters tall, with green leaves that are thin and lance-shaped and can withstand cold temperatures. Arrow Bamboo is a popular ornamental plant for its elegant appearance, and it is also used for various purposes, such as construction, furniture-making, and as a food source for pandas.

Chinese Dwarf Bamboo (Pleioblastus Pygmaeus)

The Chinese Dwarf Bamboo, scientifically known as Pleioblastus Pygmaeus, is a small bamboo species that is native to China and Japan. It typically grows up to 30 cm tall and forms dense clusters of thin culms with delicate leaves that are green in color. This bamboo is often grown as a groundcover plant in gardens and is suitable for use in rock gardens, as edging, or as a container plant. It is also known for its ability to tolerate shade, making it a popular choice for landscaping in shaded areas.

Walking Stick Bamboo (Phyllostachys Vivax)

The Walking Stick Bamboo (Phyllostachys Vivax) is a species of bamboo known for its tall and sturdy culms, which can reach heights of up to 60 feet (18 meters). It is native to China and is widely cultivated for ornamental purposes and as a source of timber and food.

The Walking Stick Bamboo has a fast growth rate and can quickly form dense groves, making it an excellent choice for creating natural screens or barriers. Its slender, green stems and delicate leaves also make it a popular choice for landscaping and decorative purposes.

Water Bamboo (Zizania Latifolia)

Water Bamboo (Zizania Latiflora) is a species of perennial aquatic grass native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It is typically found growing in shallow freshwater, such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands. The plant can grow up to 5 meters in height, and its long, slender leaves can reach up to 60 centimeters in length. Water Bamboo is an important food source in Asia, with its edible shoots used in a variety of dishes, such as stir-fries and soups. It is also commonly used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits.

Sweetshoot Bamboo (Phyllostachys Dulcis)

Sweetshoot Bamboo (Phyllostachys Dulcis) is a species of bamboo that is native to China. It is a clumping bamboo, which means that it forms tight clumps of upright stems, or culms, that can grow up to 30 feet tall. The culms of this bamboo species are typically light green and have a diameter of 1-2 inches. Sweetshoot Bamboo gets its name from its edible young shoots, which are considered a delicacy in Chinese cuisine. It is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and the calming sound it produces when rustled by the wind.

Temple Bamboo (Semiarundinaria Fastuosa)

Temple Bamboo (Semiarundinaria Fastuosa) is a species of bamboo native to Japan, where it grows in temple gardens and other sacred sites. It is a tall and graceful plant, reaching heights of up to 20 feet, with slender, green stems and delicate, arching leaves. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, and its stems are also used for construction, crafts, and papermaking.

The Temple Bamboo is a hardy and adaptable plant, able to thrive in a range of climates and soil conditions, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers worldwide.

Golden Bamboo (Phyllostachys Aurea)

The Golden Bamboo, scientifically known as Phyllostachys Aurea, is a species of bamboo native to China and widely cultivated for its ornamental value. It is known for its tall and straight stems that can grow up to 10 meters in height and its distinctive golden-yellow color, which makes it a popular choice for landscaping and garden decoration. It is also used for various purposes, such as construction, papermaking, and food. However, it is considered an invasive species in some areas due to its aggressive growth and spreading nature.

Fishpole Bamboo (Phyllostachys Aurea)

Phyllostachys Aurea, commonly known as Fishpole Bamboo, is a species of bamboo native to China and widely cultivated in many parts of the world. This tall and fast-growing bamboo can reach up to 10 meters in height, with bright green stems that can turn yellow in sunlight. Its thick culms are used for various purposes, including construction, furniture, and crafts. Fishpole Bamboo is also a popular ornamental plant and can be grown in gardens or as a houseplant.

Dragon Bamboo (Gigantochloa Atter)

Dragon Bamboo (Gigantochloa Atter) is a species of bamboo native to Southeast Asia, specifically Indonesia and Malaysia. It is known for its distinctive dark color and tall, sturdy culms that can reach up to 25 meters in height. Dragon Bamboo is widely used in construction, furniture making, and as a decorative plant due to its unique appearance and durability.

Umbrella Bamboo (Fargesia Murielae)

Umbrella Bamboo (Fargesia Murielae) is a clumping, non-invasive bamboo species native to the mountains of China. It is highly sought after for its ornamental value, featuring tall, slender canes with delicate, light-green foliage that droops gracefully, resembling an umbrella. This species is relatively easy to care for, tolerates a wide range of temperatures, and can be grown in containers or as a hedge. Additionally, it is a popular choice for landscaping due to its ability to provide a natural screen, windbreak, or noise barrier.

Variegated Bamboo (Bambusa Vulgaris ‘Vittata’)

Variegated Bamboo, scientifically known as Bambusa Vulgaris Vittata, is a stunning plant species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a tall, fast-growing bamboo with green and yellow striped stems that can reach up to 50 feet in height and 4 inches in diameter. The leaves are long and slender, with a pointed tip and a bright green color.

Variegated Bamboo is a popular ornamental plant used in landscaping and garden design and can also be grown indoors as a decorative plant. It is native to Southeast Asia and is known for its durability and flexibility, making it a valuable material in construction and furniture-making.

Tortoise Shell Bamboo (Phyllostachys Bambusoides)

Tortoise Shell Bamboo (Phyllostachys Bambusoides) is a large, running bamboo species native to China, known for its strikingly beautiful culms (stems) that resemble the shell pattern of a tortoise. It can grow up to 40 feet tall and 4 inches in diameter and is often used in landscaping and construction due to its strength and versatility. This bamboo species is also prized for its ability to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, making it an excellent eco-friendly addition to any garden or landscape.

Waterwheel Bamboo (Thyrsostachys Siamensis)

Waterwheel Bamboo (Thyrsostachys Siamensis) is a tropical clumping bamboo species native to Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its distinctive thick, hollow culms that resemble the shape of waterwheels, hence its common name. The culms can grow up to 20 meters in height and 12 centimeters in diameter, with dark green leaves that have a slightly blue tint. This bamboo species is highly prized for its durability, strength, and versatility in construction, furniture-making, and decorative uses. It is also commonly used as a food source for pandas as well as a habitat for various bird and insect species.

Mexican Weeping Bamboo (Otatea Acuminata Aztecorum)

Mexican Weeping Bamboo (Otatea Acuminata Aztecorum) is a species of bamboo native to Mexico. It is a clumping bamboo that can reach up to 20 feet in height and has thin green culms (stems) that gracefully arch downward, giving it a weeping appearance. Bamboo is highly valued for its ornamental use in landscaping and its versatility in construction as it is durable and strong. It also serves as a natural habitat for various wildlife species, making it an important part of the ecosystem.

Himalayan Weeping Bamboo (Drepanostachyum Falcatum)

The Himalayan Weeping Bamboo (Drepanostachyum Falcatum) is a species of bamboo that is native to the Himalayan region of Asia. It is a clumping bamboo with slender, arching culms that can grow up to 5 meters in height. The leaves are long and narrow, with a weeping habit that gives the plant its name. The bamboo is often used for construction and as a source of food for both humans and animals in the region. It is also prized for its ornamental value and is commonly grown in gardens and parks for its graceful appearance.

Timber Bamboo (Phyllostachys Pubescens)

Timber Bamboo (Phyllostachys Pubescens) is a giant and fast-growing bamboo species native to China and widely cultivated in Asia, Europe, and North America for its high-quality wood and versatile uses. It can reach up to 30 meters in height and 15 centimeters in diameter, with thick and straight culms that have a greenish-yellow color and dense foliage of lance-shaped leaves.

Timber Bamboo is a popular choice for construction, furniture, paper, and ornamental purposes, as well as a valuable source of food and habitat for various animals. It also has significant ecological and cultural importance in traditional Chinese medicine, art, and philosophy.

Sasa Veitchii (Kuma Bamboo)

Sasa Veitchii, commonly known as Kuma Bamboo, is a species of bamboo native to Japan. It is a low-growing, spreading evergreen that forms dense mats of foliage, making it a popular ground cover in landscaping. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, with dark green stripes running along their length. Kuma Bamboo is tolerant of a range of growing conditions, including shade, and is easy to maintain once established. It is also commonly used in traditional Japanese arts and crafts.

Guadua Bamboo (Guadua Angustifolia)

Guadua Bamboo (Guadua Angustifolia) is a tall, woody grass species native to South and Central America. It can grow up to 30 meters in height, with a thick stem that can reach up to 30 centimeters in diameter. Guadua bamboo is known for its strength and durability and has been used for centuries in construction, furniture-making, and even as a food source. It is also an important plant for soil conservation and can help mitigate the effects of climate change through carbon sequestration.

How To Grow And Care For Bamboo

Bamboo is a versatile and hardy plant that can be grown in a wide range of environments. Here are some tips on how to grow and care for bamboo:

Choose the right variety: There are many varieties of bamboo available, each with their own specific growing requirements. Some species are better suited for colder climates, while others thrive in hot and humid conditions. Make sure to choose a variety that is well-suited to your climate and growing conditions.

Plant in the right location: Bamboo needs plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil to grow. Choose a location that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day and has soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting bamboo in areas with heavy clay soils or low-lying areas that are prone to flooding.

Water regularly: Bamboo needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged, as bamboo roots can rot if they are kept too wet. Depending on your climate and soil type, water thoroughly once or twice a week.

Fertilize: Bamboo plants need regular fertilization to thrive. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 blend, every four to six weeks during the growing season.

Control growth: Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that can quickly take over a garden if left unchecked. Control growth by installing barriers around the planting area or pruning the plant regularly. Prune bamboo in early spring before new growth begins.

Watch for pests and diseases: Bamboo is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to certain problems, such as bamboo mites and fungal infections. Watch for signs of infestation or disease, such as yellowing leaves or discolored stems, and treat the problem promptly.

Harvest bamboo: Bamboo can be harvested for use in crafts, construction, and other projects. Harvest bamboo when the plant is mature, usually after three to five years of growth. Cut the stalks at the base using a saw or pruning shears.

By following these tips, you can grow and care for bamboo successfully in your garden or landscape.

How To Propagate Bamboo

Bamboo can be propagated by either division or cuttings. Here are the steps for each method:

Division method:

• Choose a healthy bamboo plant that is at least three years old.
• Dig around the bamboo plant and gently lift it from the soil.
• Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the root ball into sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot and a good amount of roots attached to it.
• Replant the sections in well-draining soil, making sure that the top of the root ball is at soil level.
• Water the newly planted bamboo sections thoroughly.

Cutting method:

• Choose a healthy bamboo plant and cut a section of the stem that is at least 6 inches long.
• Take off the leaves from the lower 2 inches of the stem.
• Soak the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder.
• Prepare a pot filled with well-draining soil, put the stem in, and make sure that the lower 2 inches of the stem are buried in the soil.
• Water the soil thoroughly and keep it moist.
• Place the pot in a warm, sunny environment, but avoid strong sunlight.
• After a few weeks, you should see new growth from the cutting.

Note: Bamboo can be invasive, so it’s important to choose a location for planting that will prevent the spread of the plant beyond the desired area.

Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Bamboo

Q: What is bamboo and why is it considered a sustainable material?

A: Bamboo is a type of fast-growing grass that can be found in many parts of the world. It is considered a sustainable material because it can grow quickly and requires very little water and pesticides to thrive. It also has a lower environmental impact than other materials, such as wood or plastic, because it can be harvested without harming the plant itself and is biodegradable.

Q: What are some common uses of bamboo?

A: Bamboo is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of purposes. Some common uses include construction materials (such as flooring, walls, and scaffolding), furniture, textiles (such as clothing and towels), and even as a food source (bamboo shoots are a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes).

Q: How durable is bamboo compared to other materials?

A: Bamboo is known for its durability and strength. In fact, it is often compared to hardwoods like oak and maple in terms of its strength and durability. It is also resistant to moisture and pests, which makes it a popular choice for outdoor furniture and other applications where it may be exposed to the elements.

Q: How do I care for and maintain bamboo products?

A: To care for bamboo products, it is important to avoid exposing them to excessive moisture or prolonged periods of sunlight. You can clean bamboo with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap, but avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that could damage the surface. If your bamboo product has a finish, you may also want to periodically apply a protective coat of oil or wax to help maintain its appearance.

Q: Is bamboo an environmentally-friendly choice?

A: Yes, bamboo is generally considered to be an environmentally-friendly choice. It is a renewable resource that can grow quickly without the need for pesticides or fertilizers. Additionally, because it is biodegradable, bamboo products have a lower impact on the environment than synthetic materials like plastic or petroleum-based products. However, it is important to consider the production process and transportation of bamboo products, as these factors can impact their overall environmental footprint.

Top 10 Interesting Facts About Bamboo

1. Bamboo is the fastest-growing plant in the world.  It can grow up to 91 cm (35 inches) in just one day.
2. There are over 1,500 species of bamboo. They grow in a wide variety of climates and altitudes, from tropical rainforests to cold mountains.
3. Bamboo is considered a type of grass but not a tree. It belongs to the same family as wheat, rice, and corn.
4. Bamboo has been used for thousands of years in many cultures around the world. It has been used for food, medicine, and construction materials.
5. Bamboo is incredibly strong and durable. It has a higher tensile strength than steel and can withstand heavy loads without breaking.
6. One of the most hardy and lasting materials in the world. Bamboo can grow rapidly and doesn’t require pesticides or fertilizers to thrive.
7. Some species of bamboo can grow up to 30 meters (98 feet) tall. The tallest recorded bamboo plant was over 40 meters (131 feet) tall.
8. Bamboo is a versatile material that can be used to make a wide range of products, from flooring and furniture to clothing and paper.
9. Some species of bamboo are edible and are a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes.
10. Bamboo forests play an important role in the environment. They help to prevent soil erosion, absorb carbon dioxide, and provide a habitat for many species of animals.