Phyllostachys vivax

Phyllostachys vivax
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Monocots
Clade:	Commelinids
Order:	Poales
Family:	Poaceae
Genus:	Phyllostachys
Species:	P. vivax
Binomial name
Phyllostachys vivax McClure[1]

Phyllostachys vivax, the Chinese timber bamboo, is a species of flowering plant in the bamboo subfamily of the grass family Poaceae, native to China.

It is a tall, robust evergreen plant growing quickly to 8 m (26 ft) or more, with strong green canes to 12 cm (4.7 in) in diameter,^[2] and topped by drooping leaves. Sources vary as to the maximum size, with one source quoting 21 m (69 ft).^[2] Mature canes turn yellow.

Initially forming clumps, the plants will eventually establish large thickets via underground running rhizomes, unless artificially restricted. The form P. vivax f. aureocaulis from eastern China is frequently found in cultivation, and has more vivid yellow canes striped with green. It is suitable for parks or large gardens, and is hardy down to at least −15 °C (5 °F). It has been given the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.^[3][4]

The Latin specific epithet vivax means "long-lived".^[5]

Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis - variety of culm colour

References

1. "Phyllostachys vivax". The Plant List. Retrieved 26 April 2018.
2. "Phyllostachys vivax". Bamboo Botanicals. Retrieved 26 April 2018.
3. "RHS Plantfinder - Phyllostachys vivax f. aureocaulis". Retrieved 26 April 2018.
4. "AGM Plants - Ornamental" (PDF). Royal Horticultural Society. July 2017. p. 78. Retrieved 25 April 2018.
5. Harrison, Lorraine (2012). RHS Latin for Gardeners. United Kingdom: Mitchell Beazley. ISBN 184533731X.