Pleioblastus simonii

(Carriere) Nakai

Simon bamboo

Poaceae Edible: Shoots 35 iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist· cc-by-sa

Summary

A fast-growing evergreen bamboo reaching 4.5 meters tall, hardy to UK zone 6. Year-round foliage covers this wind-pollinated hermaphrodite species. It adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils across mildly acid to basic pH ranges. The plant grows in semi-shade or full sun, prefers moist soil, and tolerates maritime exposure.

Description

A bamboo. It grows 6 m tall. It has several leafy branches at each node. The leaves are 30 cm long. The shoots are 2 cm across.

This description is brief — help expand it

Edible Uses

The young shoots are cooked; they have a very bitter flavor that is considerably reduced by changing the cooking water at least once, though this also removes some nutrients. The new shoots are about 20mm in diameter. The seed is also edible when cooked, but the papery husk must be removed before eating, as with other grass seeds.

Traditional Uses

It is best to change the water at least once during cooking to remove bitterness.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant. It suits hardiness zones 5-9.

Where It Grows

Asia, Britain, China, Europe, Japan,

Propagation

Surface sow seed as soon as it is ripe in a greenhouse at around 20°C; stored seed should be sown immediately upon receipt. Keep the compost consistently moist. Germination is usually fairly quick given good seed quality, though it may take 3–6 months. Prick seedlings into individual pots when large enough and grow on in light shade in a greenhouse or cold frame until ready to plant out, which may take several years. Seed is rarely available as the plants flower only at intervals of many years. Division in spring is very easy — single canes can be used. Pot them up in light shade in a greenhouse, ensuring the foliage does not dry out; misting 2–3 times a day for the first couple of weeks after division is helpful. Plant out in summer once the divisions are growing strongly.

Other Uses

The canes are thin-walled but extremely strong, suitable for use as plant supports, fencing, fan handles, and poles, and are commonly used in Chinese handicrafts. The plant is tolerant of maritime exposure and is vigorous enough to serve as a screen or hedge.