Pygmy Bamboo, Dwarf Bamboo

Arundinaria pygmaea

Poaceae (Grass Family)

▲ colony of shoots about 8-10 inches tall

▲▼ close-up of shoots, showing the upper-stem branching

Arundinaria pygmaea:  Pygmy Bamboo

Location on campus:  on west side of parking lot between Glass and Temple Hall on MSU campus.

·         Asian, running (creeping perennial) warm-season bamboo grass that grows 12-18” tall and forms dense colonies

·         Leaf blades are short and broad (1/2-3/4” wide by 3-6” long) on short, stiff, branched stems

·         May take awhile to become established and begin spreading, but can spread several feet per year after established

·         Prefers part sun to moderate shade, but can tolerate full sun

·         Prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soils, but can tolerate drier soils

·         Can spread into lawns, but mowing will keep it from being evident