“'When the culms start getting thicker, they'll be kind of this nice pale blue.' Newly planted.”
Background
Bambusa dolichomerithalla is a species from Taiwan (also known as blow-gun bamboo, from its traditional use by indigenous Taiwanese). The 'Blue' (Doli Blue) selection is a trade form noted for a white waxy powder developing on the culms that reads as pale blue. Thin published background; most data comes from Australian and US specialty bamboo sellers.
Distinguishing traits
Tight-clumping, upright bamboo 25-35 ft tall with 1.5-2 in culms; a white powder develops on maturing culms giving a pale/cobalt blue tint. Holds foliage low to the ground in full sun; exceptionally clean growing with little leaf drop. Leaves resemble those of graceful bamboo (B. textilis 'Gracilis').
Desert care — zone 9b
- Chill hours
- n/a — ornamental
- Cold hardiness
- Thin cultivar-specific data; the straight species is rated to ~28°F, and one US seller lists the dolichomerithalla group hardy to 12°F. Treat as ~15-25°F until verified — protect in hard 9b freezes.
- Heat tolerance
- Good tropical heat tolerance; full sun brings out the blue bloom on culms.
- Water
- Regular water to establish; moderate once established.
- Soil
- Moist, well-drained soil with mulch.
- Sun exposure
- Full sun to part shade.
Where to buy
- Bamboo Land Nursery