Bamboo Identification

Question

I transplanted this bamboo last spring in Chicago suburbs zone 5. It’s been doing great so far but I’m worried about what might happen if we get an extremely cold winter. Can anyone identify the type of bamboo and it’s hardiness in this area? Do you have any suggestions how to protect it in cold winter months?

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Answer 1

Likely, it is a Phyllostachys. Maybe P. aurea. These are typically much hardier than tropical Bambusa species. They should be fully hardy in your area, but you can take measures, such as mulching, to be sure that it survives. You can try and ask who you got it from about which it is. That would get you a more accurate answer.

You might try and take samples you your local extension service. They would be able to test and give a positive ID.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/what-is-extension-service.htm