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Description
Bambusa Oldhamii, also known as giant timber bamboo or Oldham’s bamboo, is a species of bamboo native to Taiwan. It is a fast-growing bamboo that can reach up to 70 feet tall and 5 inches in diameter. Bambusa Oldhamii is a popular choice for construction and decoration purposes due to its strength and versatility. It has a straight and erect culm, with dark green leaves that are about 10 inches long and 1 inch wide. The culm sheaths are initially dark green and turn yellow-brown with age.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Bambusa |
Appearance
Bambusa Oldhamii has a straight and erect culm that can reach up to 70 feet tall and 5 inches in diameter. The culm has a wall thickness of around 1 inch and is initially green, turning yellow-brown with age. The dark green leaves are about 10 inches long and 1 inch wide, with a pointed tip and a tapered base. The new culm sheaths are initially dark green and turn yellow-brown with age.
Care Guide
Water: Bambusa Oldhamii requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought.
Fertilization: This bamboo species requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and health. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil: Bambusa Oldhamii prefers well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it grows best in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Sunlight: This bamboo species prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not grow as tall or as quickly.
Hardiness Zones: Bambusa Oldhamii is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 18°F (-8°C) but may suffer damage if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bambusa Oldhamii is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal infections such as root rot, leaf spot, and rust. It may also be attacked by bamboo mites, spider mites, and aphids. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent and control these issues.
Habitat
Bambusa Oldhamii is native to Taiwan and is commonly found in subtropical and tropical regions. It prefers warm and humid climates and can grow in a wide range of soil types. It is often used for landscaping, erosion control, and construction purposes due to its strength and versatility.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Bambusa Oldhamii grow?
A: Bambusa Oldhamii is a fast-growing bamboo that can grow up to 3 feet per year under ideal conditions.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Bambusa Oldhamii?
A: It is recommended to fertilize Bambusa Oldhamii in early spring before the growing season starts.
Q: How do I control bamboo mites on Bambusa Oldhamii?
A: Bamboo mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is important to follow the instructions on the product label and to apply the treatment during the early stages of infestation.
Q: Can Bambusa Oldhamii tolerate salt spray?
A: Bambusa Oldhamii can tolerate some salt spray but may suffer damage if exposed to prolonged and intense salt spray.
Related Plants
- Bambusa Vulgaris
- Bambusa Multiplex
- Bambusa Textilis
- Bambusa Balcooa
References
- Bamboo Garden: Bambusa Oldhamii. (n.d.). Retrieved July 8, 2021, from http://www.bamboogarden.com/Bambusa%20Oldhamii.html
- Bamboo Sourcery: Oldham’s Bamboo. (n.d.). Retrieved July 8, 2021, from https://www.bamboosourcery.com/oldhams-bamboo/
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Bambusa Oldhamii. (n.d.). Retrieved July 8, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b435
