Dwarf Bamboo

Pygmy Bamboo, Dwarf Bamboo

Arundinaria pygmaea

Poaceae (Grass Family)

▲ colony of shoots about 8-10 inches tall

▲ ▼ close-up of shoots, showing the upper-stem branching

Arundinaria pygmaea: Pygmy Bamboo

Location on campus: on west side of parking lot between Glass and Temple Hall on MSU campus.

• Asian, running (creeping perennial) warm-season bamboo grass that grows 12-18" tall and forms dense colonies
• Leaf blades are short and broad (1/2-3/4" wide by 3-6" long) on short, stiff, branched stems
• May take awhile to become established and begin spreading, but can spread several feet per year after established
• Prefers part sun to moderate shade, but can tolerate full sun
• Prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soils, but can tolerate drier soils
• Can spread into lawns, but mowing will keep it from being evident