The Most Drought Tolerant Bamboo

Frank,

I'm again tapping your expertise.  This time it's about bamboo.  We're thinking of planting some bamboo to provide a kind of natural wall for privacy in a strip that's surrounded by a low concrete wall with driveway on one side and a concrete patio on the other.  Thus, the bamboo would seem to be sufficiently contained.  Ideally, its a type that tops off at 8-10 feet tall.

Thanks, Vince

Hi Vince,

Is water use a concern for you?

Cheers,   Frank

Frank,

 This is probably a 20 foot run of bamboo, so I'm guessing that wouldn't be too much of a water demand, and the area gets sun all day.

Thanks, Vince

Hi Vince,

Most bamboos are big water users, so keep that in mind. That being said I would recommend Phyllostachys aurea planted in a rhizome barrier. P. aurea is the most drought tolerant of the bamboos. You’ll want to wait till spring or late winter to start it.

Cheers,   Frank 

Phyllostachys aurea