Himalayacalamus hookerianus 'Himalaya Blue'

blue bamboo

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: fast growing
• Leaves: mid-green
• Canes: blue with purple tints fading to yellow
• Hardiness: frost hardy (may need protection in their first winter)
  
  A hardier, bluer variety that was found growing at altitudes above 2800m (8400ft) in the Himalayas. This bamboo is a relatively recent introduction to the UK where it is prized for its colourful canes. They emerge each year in early summer in shades of green and slowly become bluer over a period of a couple of years. They finally fade after a couple of years to a greeny-yellow with hints of purple. It has delicate looking foliage and a very upright habit so is great for adding vertical interest. As it is a clump forming variety it is not invasive, but it will spread to around 3m across. It looks stunning planted up in a large pot (just make sure you keep it well watered) or planted next to water.
  
  
• Garden care: It will thrive in a cool, moist, shaded position with protection from cold dry winds. Avoid very heavy soils that get waterlogged for long periods in winter. It can cope with snow and temperatures down to -9C in its native environment once it is well established, however it will need a little help to settle in here in the UK, so protect it with fleece for its first few winters.
  
  

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