Fargesia (bamboo)

The Fargesia, better known as bamboo, is a popular non-invasive bamboo species valued for its rapid growth and graceful appearance. Thanks to its compact growth habit, this bamboo is ideal for both large and small gardens and perfectly suited as a bamboo hedge, for group planting, or as a striking solitary feature in an (Oriental) garden.

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Bamboo is one of the most well-known and widely used plants in our gardens. A distinction is made between running bamboo (Phyllostachys) and clump-forming bamboo (Fargesia). This page mainly focuses on the latter, as Fargesia is the most popular type of bamboo due to its non-invasive growth habit. This non-spreading bamboo grows in compact clumps, has narrow, upright leaves, and presents a highly ornamental appearance. This makes bamboo perfect for use as a bamboo hedge. Bamboo is extremely versatile in the garden: from a solitary eye-catcher in a border to group plantings, and from an ideal container plant for the patio to a shrub-like accent by the pond edge or among rocks. The Fargesia species, belonging to the Poaceae family, is an ornamental grass native to regions such as China, the Himalayas, and Vietnam. In its natural habitat, this bamboo provides shelter for birds and small animals. Fargesia symbolises resilience and flexibility, values that hold great significance in Buddhism and feng shui.

This ornamental bamboo is fully hardy and thrives in shade, making it a versatile plant for various garden applications. The attractive foliage and culms of the bamboo are its greatest ornamental features and can be incorporated into garden designs in many ways. Bamboo species are capable of flowering, but this is extremely rare. Some species have a flowering cycle of 30–50 years, while others may flower only once every 100–120 years. Most remarkable is that, when Fargesia does flower at all, almost all plants of the same species worldwide bloom simultaneously (regardless of location). Fortunately, flowering is very rare and not the plant’s ornamental value, as most bamboo plants die back after flowering. Breeders, however, have developed new selections (such as Fargesia ‘JiuZhaigou’ and Fargesia ‘Rufa’) which will flourish for decades to come.

The main characteristics of a clump-forming bamboo (Fargesia) hedge

Fargesia is used in a variety of ways in our gardens. Thanks to the properties of this non-invasive bamboo, this ornamental grass is also ideally suited as a hedge plant. Below are the key characteristics of the Fargesia bamboo hedge, which clearly show why this plant is such a suitable choice for hedging:

Growth habit and height: the Fargesia hedge grows in a compact clump. New shoots appear close to the main rootstock, ensuring the hedge remains tidy in shape without invasive spreading. Above ground, a dense and bushy canopy develops. The tight growth of culms and foliage creates a closed and full hedge structure. Depending on the variety, a Fargesia bamboo hedge can reach heights of 2 to 5 metres. This makes Fargesia suitable both for low hedges around borders and for tall hedges providing privacy or boundary screening. The culms (stems of the grass/bamboo) are slender and elegant, often slightly arching. Combined with the narrow foliage, this results in a hedge that is airy yet dense.
Leaf structure and colour: the leaves are narrow, lanceolate and pointed, usually 5–12 cm long and 0.5–1.5 cm wide. They grow abundantly along the culms, making each stem richly foliated. This gives the hedge a fuller look than many other evergreen hedge plants. The leaves feel thin and flexible, yet remain evergreen, staying on the plant all year round. Leaf colour ranges from fresh light green on young shoots to deeper green on mature leaves (during colder periods the foliage may appear darker or duller). Depending on the variety, the culms may provide additional colour accents. Fargesia nitida has blue-green to purplish culms. Fargesia robusta shows bright green culms with pale sheaths, creating a striking contrast. And Fargesia jiuzhaigou develops reddish culms in sunlight, adding extra ornamental value.
Evergreen: Fargesia retains its foliage year-round, providing privacy and colour even in winter.
Site requirements: a location with morning sun or dappled light is most suitable for clump-forming bamboo. Avoid prolonged exposure to strong afternoon sun, which can cause leaf scorch. Most Fargesia varieties thrive in partial shade. They are originally mountain bamboos that naturally grow in the filtered light of forests. Some varieties, such as Fargesia robusta, tolerate more sun and perform well in sunny spots, provided the soil remains sufficiently moist. Shadier positions are tolerated, although growth will be slower.
Soil conditions: a bamboo hedge grows best in light loamy soil (both moisture-retentive and well-aerated), sandy soils enriched with organic matter (compost or potting soil), or light clay soils. Growth will be poor in heavily compacted soils (heavy clay) or dry, nutrient-poor sandy soils without humus.
Moisture and pH value: consistent soil moisture is crucial for bamboo to achieve optimal growth. Fargesia does not tolerate prolonged drought; in dry conditions, the leaves roll up to reduce evaporation. Water the hedge regularly during dry spells and apply a mulch layer to retain soil moisture. Waterlogging, however, is equally unsuitable for Fargesia. Standing water around the roots can lead to suffocation and root rot. The ideal pH is between 5.5 and 7.0, so a slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Hardiness: Fargesia is among the hardiest bamboos. Most varieties withstand temperatures between -20 °C and -25 °C, depending on variety and location. This makes them highly suitable for gardens in Central and Northern Europe, where severe winters may occur.
Pruning tolerance: Fargesia quickly produces new shoots and leaves after pruning. Its strong and vigorous root clump ensures that pruning does not cause permanent damage. Timely pruning encourages branching, resulting in a more compact and denser hedge, ideal for privacy and a neat shape. Pruning does not hinder long-term growth, as new culms appear each spring regardless of pruning.
Fast grower: Fargesia is a fast-growing hedge plant. Once established, this clump-forming bamboo can grow 50 to 75 cm per year under the right conditions. Prefer an even faster-growing bamboo? Choose Phyllostachys bamboo, which can grow 1 to 1.5 metres per year! Be aware, however, that this type is invasive, so a root barrier is essential when used in the garden.

What are the possible applications of Fargesia bamboo in the garden?

Bamboo is a popular and widely used garden plant. Below you will find an overview of garden applications, compiled by the plant experts at Heijnen.

Hedges and boundary screening: thanks to its dense, bushy growth, Fargesia forms an opaque hedge that provides privacy all year round. A bamboo hedge also dampens noise and acts as a windbreak, making it both a sound and wind buffer.
Solitary ornamental plant: not only as a bamboo screen, but also as a single specimen, bamboo can serve as an eye-catcher in a border or front garden. With its graceful, arching culms, it creates a dynamic feature that combines movement with tranquillity. In addition, bamboo makes an excellent contrast plant. Fargesia pairs beautifully with clean lines in modern gardens or as a soft complement in more naturalistic designs.
Group and border planting: a bamboo hedge fills empty spaces in borders with a fresh green backdrop. It also combines well with other garden plants. For example, Fargesia is ideal alongside flowering perennials, ornamental grasses, or shade-loving perennials, where its foliage contrast adds extra depth.
Container and patio planting: Fargesia can be grown in large pots or tubs. In containers, bamboo can easily be moved to provide shade or privacy. This makes it a perfect natural screen for balconies as well.
Atmosphere in oriental, modern, or natural gardens: bamboo instantly brings a Japanese character to any oriental-style garden. In natural or woodland gardens, Fargesia blends beautifully with trees, ferns, and shade plants. In sleek, modern gardens, the upright, dense growth of some varieties (e.g. Fargesia robusta) fits seamlessly into minimalist designs.
Functional element (windbreak, noise reduction, bird habitat): with its flexible culms, bamboo breaks the wind without snapping. The dense foliage reduces unwanted noise from neighbours or streets, while the clump-forming growth provides safe nesting sites for birds.
Evergreen plant: bamboo ensures lasting colour and structure in the garden, even during the colder months. Some varieties (such as Fargesia jiuzhaigou) add further ornamental value with reddish culms in sunlight.
Mass planting: in larger borders, Fargesia can be planted in groups as a lush green understorey. This is particularly functional in large gardens or parks as green planting between trees and shrubs.
Planting near ponds or water features: bamboo looks especially attractive next to water, where the reflection of culms and foliage adds another dimension. In Japanese-style water gardens, bamboo combines beautifully with rocks, gravel, and water ornaments.

Combining bamboo hedge plants with other garden plants

Fargesia has another major advantage: bamboo combines exceptionally well with other garden plants. This is due to its elegant culms and beautiful foliage. Below are some planting combinations with bamboo, compiled by our plant experts:

Combining bamboo with other ornamental grasses: the colours and growth habit of Fargesia make it easy to combine with many grasses. Attractive pairings include bamboo with Liriope muscari ‘Moneymaker’, Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola', Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Niger', or Ophiopogon japonicus 'Minor'.
Fargesia hedges combined with shrubs: bamboo pairs beautifully with Acer palmatum, Rhododendron, Osmanthus, and Skimmia. Combinations with Nandina, Euonymus, and dwarf Pinus varieties are also highly effective.
Combining bamboo with plants for oriental-style gardens: a true ‘must-have’, bamboo creates wonderful combinations for an oriental atmosphere when planted with azaleas, ferns, mosses, and hostas. Pairings with perennials such as Sagina, Leptinella, Astilbe, and Epimedium are also striking. Flowering trees, such as ornamental cherries (Prunus), look especially attractive alongside Fargesia, particularly the black bamboo varieties.
Bamboo combined with trees: Fargesia looks impressive alongside multi-stemmed Betula (birches) or multi-stemmed Acers. Together with variegated Cornus or Viburnum, bamboo creates strong colour contrasts.
Bamboo by water features: bamboo thrives next to ponds and water features. Beautiful plantings include bamboo with ornamental grasses and waterside plants such as Carex, Iris sibirica, and Lythrum (purple loosestrife).

Site and soil conditions for a Fargesia hedge

The success of a bamboo hedge depends on the right location, a healthy soil structure, and careful preparation before planting. This bamboo thrives best in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil that remains slightly moist but not waterlogged. Loamy, sandy, and lighter clay soils are all suitable, provided they contain enough nutrients and the roots are not exposed to prolonged wetness. On heavy clay soils, it is advisable to improve aeration and drainage by adding sand or organic matter. Dry sandy soils, on the other hand, should be improved with compost or potting soil to retain water better and provide the plant with additional nutrients. Proper preparation of the planting strip (loosening deeply and enriching with Heijnen planting soil) helps the bamboo to establish more quickly and ensures the hedge fills out sooner.

In terms of soil pH, Fargesia prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions (pH 5.5 – 7.0). Soils that are too calcareous can hinder nutrient uptake, resulting in weaker growth. As for location: Fargesia develops best in partial shade or light sun. A fully sunny spot is possible, provided the soil remains sufficiently moist. In deep shade, growth becomes looser and the hedge less dense.
Because dry, cold winds can damage the foliage, a sheltered position (e.g. along a wall, fence, or other planting) is strongly recommended. Although Fargesia is very hardy, it does not tolerate prolonged drought. Newly planted bamboo, in particular, requires regular watering during dry summers or in frosty periods with dry winds. Applying a mulch layer (such as bark or cocoa shells) helps retain soil moisture and at the same time stimulates soil life.

Practical tips for a strong bamboo hedge:

Choose a location in partial shade or light sun, preferably sheltered from wind.
Ensure fertile, humus-rich, well-aerated soil (preferably moisture-retentive).
Avoid prolonged waterlogging to prevent root damage.
Provide extra water during dry periods, especially in the first years after planting.
Fertilise twice a year (spring and summer) for healthy growth and vibrant green foliage.
Use mulch to reduce evaporation and keep the soil moist for longer.

Tip from the bamboo grower: improve the soil at planting with Heijnen planting soil. This gives the bamboo the perfect start and allows the hedge to establish more quickly into a dense, full, and lively bamboo screen.

Planting a bamboo hedge

Good preparation is the key to success when planting a Fargesia hedge. This bamboo is almost always supplied as a container-grown plant. The great advantage of this is that the root system remains intact and the plants establish immediately after planting. As a result, Fargesia (potted bamboo) can be planted almost all year round, as long as the soil is not frozen or waterlogged. With sufficient soil temperature (spring, summer, autumn), the roots quickly develop new fine root hairs, allowing the plant to continue growing rapidly.

Planting a bamboo hedge begins with careful soil preparation. Thoroughly loosen the planting strip and work in compost or Heijnen planting soil. This immediately provides the newly planted bamboo with a fertile and airy base in which the roots can establish easily. On sandy soils, enriching with organic material is essential to retain water, while on heavy clay soils, the structure should be lightened by mixing in sand or compost. To achieve a full, dense bamboo hedge, correct planting distance is important. The larger the plants at purchase, the fewer are needed per linear metre. General guidelines for the correct number of bamboo plants:

Bamboo hedge 60–80 cm, 80–100 cm – 4 plants per linear metre
Bamboo hedge 100–125 cm, 125–150 cm – 3 plants per linear metre
Bamboo hedge 150–175 cm, 175–200 cm – 2 plants per linear metre

Important points when planting:

Always plant bamboo at the same depth as it stood in the pot.
Firm the soil well after planting to eliminate air pockets around the roots.
Water generously immediately after planting and ensure regular watering in the first months. This is especially crucial during dry summers for proper root development and establishment.
Apply a mulch layer (bark or cocoa shells) to retain moisture and protect the soil from drying out.

With the right preparation and care, a Fargesia hedge will establish within a few years into a dense, evergreen screen that not only provides privacy but also adds an elegant, natural character to the garden. For those wishing to follow the entire planting process step by step, please see our hedge planting instructions.

Tip from our bamboo specialist: would you like an instant tall, privacy screen? Then choose larger Fargesia plants at planting. These provide immediate volume and close faster into a lush green hedge.

Maintenance and care of a bamboo hedge (Fargesia)

A bamboo hedge (Fargesia) requires the right care and maintenance, both at planting and in the years thereafter. A good start begins with a suitable location and well-prepared soil. Once the plants are in the ground, proper aftercare determines how quickly the bamboo hedge develops into a dense, green screen. Below are the most important points and tips:

Planting a bamboo hedge

Container-grown plants: Fargesia is usually supplied in pots (rarely as root balls). This makes it possible to plant almost year-round, provided the soil is not frozen or waterlogged after heavy rain. The most favourable periods are spring and autumn, when temperatures and soil moisture are ideal for root growth. Because the roots are fully developed in pots, these plants usually establish quickly and without problems.
Soil and preparation: for healthy growth, Fargesia requires moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil. Thoroughly loosen the planting trench beforehand and enrich it with Heijnen planting soil to give the roots the best start. On heavy clay, it is advisable to lighten the soil with sand and organic matter. On dry sandy soil, adding compost or potting soil helps retain moisture.
Planting distance: the number of plants needed per linear metre depends on the height at purchase. For bamboo plants 60/80 cm and 80/100 cm tall, we recommend around 4 plants per metre. For plants between 1 and 1.5 metres tall, 3 per metre is sufficient, and for plants taller than 1.5 metres, 2 per metre is enough.

Watering a bamboo hedge (Fargesia)

After planting: immediately after planting, a Fargesia hedge must be watered generously. This helps the soil settle around the root balls, eliminates air pockets, and enables the bamboo to anchor itself quickly.
The first growth phase: in the first months after planting, the hedge is particularly vulnerable. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry or hot periods. At this stage, the plant forms new fine roots, and sufficient moisture is crucial for successful establishment.
Amount and frequency: it is better to water less often but more thoroughly (for example, twice a week) than to give small amounts daily. This ensures the water penetrates deeper into the soil, encouraging the roots to grow deeper. Over time, this makes the hedge stronger and more drought-tolerant. Always check the soil before watering to ensure the bamboo actually needs water.
Mature hedge: once well established, Fargesia becomes more resilient to dry conditions. However, during prolonged heat or drought, it is still advisable to provide extra water. Water preferably in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
Note: while Fargesia likes moisture, it cannot tolerate standing water. Persistently wet roots may lead to suffocation or root rot. Always ensure good drainage and improve heavy soils with sand and organic matter where necessary.

Pruning a bamboo hedge

Frequency of pruning: a Fargesia hedge naturally remains compact, but pruning helps to keep it fuller and tidier. In most gardens, one pruning per year is sufficient, usually in summer. In cases of vigorous growth, or where a very formal hedge is desired, a second pruning in autumn can be useful.
Best time for pruning: the first cut is done in June or July, once the new shoots have hardened. A second pruning, if required, can be carried out in August or September so the hedge enters winter neatly. Pruning in late autumn or winter is not recommended, as the young cuts are more vulnerable to frost and drying.
Pruning method: always use clean, sharp tools to avoid ragged wounds. Focus on trimming back the young, long shoots to shape the hedge. Older culms can be removed at the base if necessary; this encourages fresh green shoots and prevents the hedge from becoming too stiff or open. Ideally prune on a cloudy day to prevent sun scorch on cut surfaces.
Shape of the hedge: a slight taper (wider at the base than at the top) is best. This allows sufficient light to reach the lower parts, ensuring dense growth from top to bottom.
Recovery after pruning: Fargesia tolerates pruning very well and quickly produces new foliage. Regular pruning results in an increasingly dense hedge. Even if pruning is delayed and the hedge becomes looser, bamboo usually recovers well after rejuvenation pruning.

Feeding a bamboo hedge

During planting: give a new Fargesia hedge the best start by enriching the soil with an organic planting fertiliser, such as Heijnen starter fertiliser. This promotes strong root development and helps the young plants establish more quickly.
Spring (March/April): as temperatures rise in early spring, bamboo begins its growth period. Apply the first feed at this stage, such as cattle manure pellets or Heijnen maintenance fertiliser. This provides the nutrients needed for strong, fresh shoots to form a dense hedge.
Summer (June/July): a second application in summer supports growth and resilience, keeping the hedge compact and deep green. On light sandy soils, where nutrients leach away more quickly, timely fertilisation prevents deficiencies and keeps the plants healthy.
Compost and mulch: applying a layer of bark or cocoa shells around the base each year has several benefits: it improves soil structure, stimulates soil life, helps retain moisture, and protects the roots from drying out. This is particularly effective on dry or nutrient-poor soils.
pH value: Fargesia prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5–7.0).

The greatest ornamental values of non-invasive bamboo

Bamboo, especially non-invasive species such as Fargesia, offers a wealth of ornamental qualities that make this ornamental grass one of the most popular garden plants. Below are the main ornamental values of bamboo according to our customers:

Elegant growth habit of bamboo: Fargesia produces slender, graceful culms that are often upright or slightly arching. Thanks to its bushy growth and dense foliage, the bamboo plant creates a full and natural look. Some varieties (such as Fargesia murieliae) even develop a parasol- or fountain-like shape, giving the plant a particularly attractive and decorative form.
Beautiful colours of culms and leaves: the culms (the stems, later bamboo canes) vary by species, from fresh green to blue-green, yellow, black, or even reddish (e.g. Fargesia jiuzhaigou). The foliage remains fresh green throughout the year, ensuring the hedge or solitary plant always looks decorative. Young bamboo shoots in spring are often lighter in colour, adding extra ornamental value to the garden.
Attractive leaf structure: bamboo shares one striking feature: its graceful leaf structure. Narrow, elongated leaves grow in great numbers along the culms, giving bamboo an airy and refined texture that contrasts beautifully with the larger leaves of trees and shrubs.
Movement of bamboo: bamboo sways elegantly in the wind. The graceful motion of the culms and leaves creates a playful effect. The gentle rustling of the foliage is often compared to the sound of water, adding to a tranquil garden atmosphere.
Hardy and evergreen: bamboo is an evergreen garden plant. The foliage remains fresh green throughout the year, even in winter when many other plants are bare. This makes bamboo a valuable plant that provides lasting colour and structure in the garden.
Highly versatile in the garden: Fargesia is suitable for both modern, minimalist gardens (as a hedge, mass planting, in pots, or borders) and naturalistic or oriental gardens (by ponds, in rock gardens, or near waterfalls). This makes bamboo extremely versatile in garden design.
Easy to combine: bamboo species combine beautifully with flowering perennials, ornamental grasses, or trees with striking bark (such as birch or flowering cherry). The textures and colours of typical foliage plants also pair well with bamboo.

Popular and widely used bamboo varieties at Heijnen suitable for hedges

At Heijnen you will find several bamboo varieties that are perfectly suited for creating hedges or planting in borders. Our specialists have summarised the most commonly used species below, so you can quickly see the differences and easily order the bamboo hedge that best suits your garden and preferences. Our plant experts have made a distinction between widely used clump-forming (non-invasive) bamboos (Fargesia) and popular running bamboos (Phyllostachys).

Tip from the grower: always use a root barrier when planting running bamboo to prevent the rhizomes (underground shoots) from spreading uncontrollably in the garden and potentially damaging sewer pipes or pond liners.

Clump-forming (non-invasive) bamboo varieties

Fargesia murielae ‘Jiuzhaigou’ is a compact, non-invasive bamboo with slender culms that turn red in the sun. It has fine, narrow foliage and an elegant, upright to slightly arching habit. Height 2–3.5 m; ideal for medium-high, graceful hedges or as a specimen plant. Prefers partial shade and evenly moist, humus-rich soil; hardy to around −25 °C. Differs from ‘Jumbo’ by its slimmer culms, finer foliage, and more pronounced culm colouring.
Fargesia nitida (blue bamboo) forms dense, non-invasive clumps with very slender, upright culms with a bluish-green sheen. Height 3–5 m; hardy to approx. −25 °C. Narrow, elegant leaves; more upright and refined growth habit than ‘Jumbo’ or ‘Rufa’. Perfect for tall, formal hedges in partial shade; thrives in cool, moist, humus-rich soil. Less sun-tolerant than ‘Robusta Campbell’; retains its deep green, refined colours in shade.
Fargesia murielae ‘Jumbo’ is the fastest-growing umbrella bamboo for dense, privacy hedges. Upright culms with broad, gracefully arching leaves create a lush, bushy look. Height 3–4 m; tolerant of both sun and wind, provided the soil remains moist. Non-invasive and easy to prune; regenerates strongly. Differs from ‘Nitida’ with coarser leaves and a fuller silhouette; from ‘Campbell’ with its softer, arching habit. Suitable for hedges at 3–4 plants per metre; prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil.
Fargesia rufa is a lower, very dense bamboo (2–3 m) with warm orange-brown sheaths and fresh green foliage. Quickly forms a closed, non-invasive hedge; excellent for lower screens, mass planting, or large containers. Tolerates sun to partial shade, wind, and regular pruning; requires consistent soil moisture. Differs from ‘Jumbo’ by its more compact size and from ‘Jiuzhaigou’ by its less pronounced culm colouring and broader, cushion-like shape. Ideal for smaller spaces or as edging.
Fargesia robusta ‘Campbell’ forms tall, narrow hedges (4–5 m) with sturdy, upright culms and striking ivory-white sheaths: a modern ‘panda effect’. Very fast-growing, non-invasive, and sun-tolerant; ideal for slim, vertical green screens. Wind-resistant and hardy to around −20 °C. Differs from ‘Nitida’ with stronger culms and greater sun tolerance; from ‘Jumbo’ with its more vertical, less arching growth habit. Plant 3–4 per metre; prefers humus-rich, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil.

Running bamboo varieties (safe to use in the garden with a root barrier)

Phyllostachys aurea (golden bamboo) is notable for its golden-yellow culms, especially in sunny positions. The lower parts of the culms develop a thickened, knobbly appearance, which makes it unique. Reaches 4–6 m high and forms a dense screen. Hardy to about −15 °C; suitable for sun or partial shade. As it spreads vigorously, a root barrier is essential. Difference: more compact and golden-coloured compared to dark green or black types.
Phyllostachys bissetii is one of the strongest and most cold-hardy bamboos (to approx. −20 °C). Its culms are deep green, upright, and very robust. Fast-growing and can reach 5–8 m high, making it ideal for tall hedges or windbreaks. Performs well in sun or partial shade and is more wind-resistant than many other species. Also highly invasive, so always plant with a root barrier. Difference: greener, tougher, and less striking in colour than Aurea or Nigra.
Phyllostachys nigra, also known as black bamboo. The culms start green but turn deep black after 1–3 years, especially in the sun. This creates a striking contrast with the fresh, fine foliage. Grows to 4–7 m and has an elegant habit, often with slightly arching culms. Hardy to around −18 °C. Also strongly invasive, so a root barrier is essential. Difference: unique for its black culms, slower growing, and more decorative than green species.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of bamboo plants in the garden?

The specialists at Heijnen have listed the main advantages and considerations of bamboo plants in a clear overview. This information is based on many years of experience in the nursery as well as feedback from customers who have grown bamboo in their gardens for years. This gives you a reliable overview to help make the right choice for your garden.

Advantages of a bamboo hedge

Evergreen: a bamboo hedge retains its fresh foliage colour throughout the year, remaining opaque even in winter.
Fast hedge formation: within just a few years, bamboo creates a dense privacy screen thanks to its rapid growth.
Wide choice: Fargesia is a clump-forming, non-invasive bamboo and safe for gardens, while Phyllostachys is more suitable for larger hedges or gardens (with a root barrier).
High ornamental value: striking culm colours such as gold (Aurea), black (Nigra), blue-green (Nitida), or the contrasting “panda effect” (Robusta ‘Campbell’).
Versatile use: suitable as a boundary hedge, windbreak, sound buffer, or decorative focal point in the garden.
Hardy: most species tolerate temperatures from −18 °C to −25 °C, depending on the variety.
Excellent pruning tolerance: pruning stimulates branching, making the hedge denser and more compact.
Low maintenance: mainly requires watering during dry periods and organic feeding; not very susceptible to pests and diseases.
Protective effect: the dense growth reduces noise and blocks wind, making the garden calmer and more sheltered.
Ecological value: a bamboo hedge provides nesting and shelter for birds and small animals, thus enhancing biodiversity.

Disadvantages of a bamboo hedge

Rhizomes (Phyllostachys): these running varieties spread vigorously and always require a root barrier to prevent problems. Alternatively, choose a non-invasive bamboo such as Fargesia.
Soil requirements: Fargesia does not tolerate prolonged drought, and Phyllostachys cannot withstand standing water. A well-drained yet moist soil is therefore essential.
Space and height: bamboo grows quickly, and Phyllostachys can reach heights of 6–8 m. Regular pruning is necessary to keep the hedge manageable.
Location sensitivity: Fargesia may suffer leaf damage from intense sun or wind, while Phyllostachys is more sensitive to late frost on young shoots.

Buying bamboo or a bamboo hedge at Heijnen

You can easily and affordably order a bamboo hedge online at Heijnen. Since 1976, the Heijnen family has been cultivating a wide range of hedge plants, including the popular bamboo species such as the non-invasive Fargesia and the vigorous Phyllostachys. These species are ideal for creating an evergreen and elegant hedge and are delivered directly from our nursery. This guarantees healthy, strong bamboo plants of top quality at a competitive price. Our bamboo is carefully selected and grown with attention, so you can enjoy a full, dense, and graceful hedge for many years. A bamboo hedge grows quickly, stays green all year round, and tolerates pruning very well. This creates a hedge that not only provides privacy and shelter but also adds a luxurious and natural look to any garden. Do you have questions or would you like advice on the right species or planting a bamboo hedge? Our experienced bamboo specialists are happy to assist you by email or telephone.

Buy your bamboo hedge directly from Heijnen and benefit from:

Top-quality bamboo plants, delivered directly from our nursery.
Fast and careful home delivery.
Personal advice from our experienced hedge specialists.

Alternative Hedge Plants for the Fargesia

Would you prefer a different type of hedge than the Fargesia? Then discover our popular and possible alternatives here:

Ideal placement of a Tetrapanax

For those seeking to establish a bamboo hedge with Fargesia, selecting an ideal location is pivotal for the plant's success. This species thrives in a range of light conditions, from full sun to shade, but it shows a preference for partial shade, which mimics its natural woodland habitat. This versatile plant adapts well to various well-drained soil types, ensuring that with the correct care, it can provide a lush, quickly obscuring screen throughout the year. Its evergreen foliage, which retains its vibrant green and blue hues across all seasons, makes Fargesia a stunning and practical choice for gardeners.

Planting a Tetrapanax

For optimal establishment, Fargesia should be planted in well-drained soil that can accommodate its growth rate of 50-75 cm per year. This species thrives in a range of light conditions, from full sun to shade, making it versatile for different garden locations. When planting as a hedge or solitary, ensure adequate spacing to cater to its quickly obscuring visual density, which provides privacy and a lush backdrop throughout the year. The evergreen foliage retains its green and blue hues across all seasons, while the stems offer a colorful display from yellow to cream. Planting is best done in spring or autumn to allow for root establishment.

Pruning a Tetrapanax

Pruning of Fargesia should be conducted sparingly, ideally once per year, to maintain its natural shape and encourage healthy growth. It is best to prune in late winter before the onset of new growth. During this time, remove any dead or weak culms at the base to enhance light penetration and air circulation within the clump. This selective thinning rather than shearing ensures the plant retains its lush, quickly obscuring foliage and the striking colors of its stems throughout the seasons.

Watering a Tetrapanax

Fargesia thrives with consistent moisture in the soil, which should never be allowed to dry out completely. This species does not exhibit drought resistance, necessitating regular watering to maintain its lush, evergreen foliage and vibrant stem colors throughout the seasons. In periods of low rainfall or high temperatures, increase the frequency of watering to ensure the root system is adequately hydrated. However, it is vital to ensure proper drainage as well, as waterlogged conditions are unfavorable for the plant's health.

Fertilising a Tetrapanax

To support the lush, dense foliage and maintain the striking stem colors of bamboo varieties throughout the seasons, it is beneficial to provide them with the necessary nutrients. A balanced, slow-release fertiliser applied in early spring can provide the nutrition needed for the vigorous 50 - 75 cm annual growth rate. It is also recommended to add a second application of fertiliser during the summer to sustain the plant's needs as it continues to develop.

Using a fertiliser formulated for bamboos, which typically includes a higher nitrogen content, will contribute to the health and vitality of the plant. Spread the granules around the base of the Fargesia, taking care not to let the fertiliser come in direct contact with the foliage or stems to prevent burn.

The characteristics of a Tetrapanax

Despite its robust appearance, bamboo Fargesia benefits greatly from a layer of mulch to maintain soil moisture and temperature. Additionally, while often overlooked, ensuring that the surrounding soil is rich in organic matter will encourage a more vigorous growth and lush appearance, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of this graceful plant.

Separating/dividing a Tetrapanax

To propagate and rejuvenate Fargesia, division is an effective technique. Undertake this task preferably in the spring or autumn to align with the plant's growth cycle. Carefully lift the clump from the soil, ensuring to maintain the integrity of the root structure. Once removed, divide the clump into smaller sections, each with a robust root system and several shoots. Replant these segments into well-drained soil, spacing them appropriately to accommodate their rapid growth rate of 50-75 cm per year. Division not only stimulates new growth but also contributes to the overall health and vigor of the plant.

The ideal variety for you Buy fargesia (bamboo)

Embrace the serene beauty of Fargesia, a non-invasive bamboo that adds a touch of tranquility to any space. Its lush foliage offers an elegant green aesthetic year-round, making it an exquisite choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, yet visually stunning plant for their garden or patio area.

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