Giant timber bamboo (Bambusa oldhamii)

Giant timber bamboo

Giant timber bamboo is a majestic clumping bamboo reaching heights of over 10 meters, known for its thick, green culms and lush foliage. Common in warm climates, it forms dense screens offering privacy and sound barriers with its rustling leaves. The straight, upright growth habit and hardiness make giant timber bamboo a popular choice for both ornamental and practical landscaping uses.

Scientific classification

Species

Giant timber bamboo (Bambusa oldhamii)

Grasses, sedges and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Grass

Plant Type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Giant timber bamboo

Distribution of Giant timber bamboo

Distribution Map

Giant timber bamboo is originally native to East Asia, flourishing within temperate environments. Over time, its resilience and flexibility have enabled it to be introduced and thrive across various regions spanning continents such as North America, South America, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. Its adaptability is evident by its successful naturalization in areas with congenial climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Giant timber bamboo

Towering height of up to 55 feet (16.8 meters)

Sturdy culms with diameters reaching 4 inches (10 cm)

Dense foliage canopy for privacy screening

Thrives in full sunlight with low water requirements

Resistant to cool temperatures, enduring lows of 15-20°F (-9 to -6°C)

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Giant timber bamboo

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Giant timber bamboo is a tropical evergreen that prefers high humidity and requires watering twice a week for optimal health. While it has moderate drought tolerance, it remains lush year-round, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.

Fertilize: Fertilizing giant timber bamboo with a 2-inch layer of mulch or compost biannually in spring and fall enhances soil quality, promoting optimal growth and resilience. Adjusting the quantity during growth stages, especially shooting periods, is crucial to prevent over-fertilization and ensure healthy development.

Pruning: Giant timber bamboo thrives with annual pruning in early spring. Removing dead or weak canes promotes airflow, light penetration, and reduces disease risk. This practice manages height and spread, supporting vigorous growth and enhancing the plant's appearance, ensuring longevity and structural integrity.

Propagation: Giant timber bamboo is a hardy perennial plant that thrives in height with sturdy canes. Effective propagation occurs through division, requiring healthy growth buds and root segments. Transplant divisions promptly in moist, fertile soil, ensuring consistent watering to promote establishment and adaptation to new sites.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Giant timber bamboo

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free