Chusquea culeou

( "Foxtail Bamboo")

A native of temperate mountainous regions and may resent extremes of temperature. Has tolerated -18C. 

An instantly recognisable and striking specimen plant which also has potential for screening. However, it does not adapt well to being container grown, even under nursery conditions. 

A superb bamboo for all but the smallest gardens. RHS. Award.

Suitable for sun or light shade but possibly benefits from light shade.

First introduced from Chile in 1890 where it has evolved into various geographical forms. Stocks available in the UK are probably best regarded as a mixture of un-named clones with slightly differing characteristics, particularly in terms of their mature height.

Slow to propagate and consequently availability is soetimes limited.

Chusquea culeou "Weeping Form"/"Tall Form"

A very robust clone introduced into the UK in 2002 as seed from a botanical garden in California under the description 0f Chusquea  culeou "Weeping Form".

After twelve years, a specimen growing amongst Birch trees on thin acidic soil close to Beeley Moors formed a dense upright clump of about 10ft (3m).  Here  at the nursery it has developed a spread of about  6ft (2m) and a height of  14ft. (4.3m) 

The culms are strong and of medium diameter with dark green foliage.

 As yet its habit  has remained upright but older canes may possibly begin to arch as they produce a greater weight of foliage.

Has tolerated -16C

Not comparable in size with Chusquea gigantea but a fine intermediate form, which is perhaps more appropriate for smaller gardens.

This was the only available tall Chusquea until  seedlings of Chusquea gigantea began to develop into the adult form this year ( 2024).

Possibly best in light shade.

The canes are solid instead of hollow and may be useful for craft purposes or support for clematis or other climbers.

Slow to propagate and consequently  limited avaiability.

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