More Information
Where to view Bamboos
What a plant looks like in a nursery pot will give little indication of its ultimate size. You can research bamboo characteristics in books and websites (some useful links have been provided below). However, it's also helpful to view a mature specimen of any plant to fully appreciate its possible dimensions and general appearence.
A good place to go in Brisbane is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mt Coot-tha. There's a bamboo area (opposite the Japanese garden) which contains many species. You'll get some idea of how large even clumping species can grow.
If anyone knows of other public gardens in Queensland containing a good selection of labelled bamboos, please get in touch (details at bottom of page). Owners of private gardens speciallising in bamboos may also wish to get in touch if they sometimes open to the public (e.g. under AOGS).
Getting rid of bamboo
The following links contain tips that victims of bamboo invasion may find useful:
Alternatives
If you're just looking for something to evoke a tropical/Asian atmosphere, you might also consider alternative plants like certain large ornamental grasses or multi-stemmed palms that have a bamboo-like appearance.
More Links
The following links are for general information - some species or cultivars may be unavailable in Australia. When selecting bamboo, be certain the variety is appropriate for your situation!
Bamboo Research Northern Territory Department of Primary Industry, Fisheries and Mines
Tropical Bamboo The Florida Caribbean Chapter of the American Bamboo Society
Bamboo Photo gallery of Michael Christoffel, Wisconsin, USA. Includes some interesting pictures of bamboo seeds and seedlings, plus some
closeups of leaves
The World of Bamboo (English edition) This Japanese site provides links to huge range of Japanaese and other non-english language sites which would be otherwise difficult for the English speaker to discover. The serious enthusiast will find plenty to explore here.
bambus.de Most of the site in German but has some interesting photos. Be sure to check "Infos"
Bambusa lako
Common name: Timor Black
Bambusa lako at the The Florida Caribbean Chapter of the American Bamboo Society website
Bambusa vulgaris 'Wamin'
Common names: Wamin, Giant* Buddha's Belly (*I have also seen it described as Dwarf Buddha Belly. Furthermore, there's another species also called Buddha's Belly, so be sure to confirm the scientific name and variety to make sure you have the correct plant)
Bambusa textilis var. gracilis
Common names: Slender Weavers Bamboo
Dendrocalamus minor var. amoenus
Common names: Ghost Bamboo, White Bamboo, Angel Mist Bamboo
Schizostachyum brachycladum
Common names: The cultivar with yellow culms is known as Bali Kuning or Sacred Bali Bamboo. Other cultivars vary in culm and leaf coloration.
