Buddha's belly bamboo - Bambusa tuldoides (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Buddha's belly bamboo

Also known as: Verdant bamboo, Buddah's-belly bamboo

Originally native to parts of southeast Asia, buddha's belly bamboo has been introduced to other areas of the world and is now considered an invasive weed in many tropical areas. Because the walls of the culms (stems) are very thick, they are extremely useful for tool handles, various crafts, and punting poles.

Scientific classification

Species

Buddha's belly bamboo (Bambusa tuldoides)

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

Green

Leaf Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Buddha's belly bamboo

Distribution of Buddha's belly bamboo

Distribution Map

Buddha's belly bamboo is native to parts of Southeast Asia, where it is a familiar part of the landscape. Beyond its native region, buddha's belly bamboo has managed to establish itself in a variety of territories across continents, aided by its cultivation for various uses. In some regions, such as the Caribbean, buddha's belly bamboo may somewhat adapt to local ecosystems, potentially shaping them with its presence. Despite its spread, the extent to which buddha's belly bamboo impacts ecosystems is generally subtle, due to its cultivation rather than aggressive invasiveness.

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

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Buddha's belly bamboo

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating in regions with consistent rainfall, buddha's belly bamboo thrives on weekly watering, preferring evenly moist soil but tolerating dryness. Best grown outdoors, it benefits from well-draining soil, mimicking its native environment's drainage for optimal growth.

Fertilize: For buddha's belly bamboo, apply balanced, slow-release fertilizers monthly during the growing season, supplementing with mulch or compost for nutrients. Reduce feeding in colder months. Maintain slightly acidic to neutral soil with compost. Follow label instructions to avoid root burn, and keep fertilizers off culms and leaves.

Pruning: Buddha's belly bamboo thrives with early spring pruning when sap flow starts. Key practices include cutting dead or crowded culms at the base and thinning older stems every 3–5 years to encourage growth. Regular pruning maintains health and manages height, using clean, sharp tools for optimal results.

Propagation: Buddha's belly bamboo is propagated via division by carefully separating a mature clump into smaller sections with roots and shoots. Use a sharp tool and ensure each section has enough roots. Plant in well-draining soil, keep moist, and protect from direct sunlight for successful establishment.

Repotting: Spring repotting every 2-3 years is essential for buddha's belly bamboo, an upright bamboo. Use well-draining pots at least 20% larger, water thoroughly, and maintain moist soil with dappled sunlight to support growth and preserve buddha's belly bamboo's sculptural form in the garden.

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

Images of Buddha's belly bamboo

Distribution of Buddha's belly bamboo

Care Guide for Buddha's belly bamboo

PEOPLE ALSO ASK