Giant Bamboo, Dragon Bamboo, Asper Bamboo, Sweet Bamboo
Dendrocalamus giganteus
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Giant Bamboo is primarily used for construction, providing strong and durable timber for houses, bridges, and scaffolding. Young shoots are edible after proper preparation to remove toxins. Leaves can be used as fodder. In permaculture systems, it acts as a windbreak and helps prevent soil erosion. It can be used to create living fences and provide shade. The culms are used for making furniture, handicrafts, and paper. It can sequester large amounts of carbon, contributing to climate change mitigation.
Permapeople description
Dendrocalamus giganteus is a giant tropical bamboo species belonging to the grass family Poaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia. It is one of the tallest bamboo species in the world.
Botanical description
Dendrocalamus giganteus is one of the largest bamboo species in the world. It is a sympodial (clumping) bamboo, meaning it spreads slowly and is not invasive like running bamboos. Culms can reach heights of up to 100 feet (30 meters) and diameters of up to 12 inches (30 cm). The culms are generally greenish-grey. Branches emerge from the upper nodes. Leaves are lance-shaped, about 8-14 inches (20-35 cm) long and 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide. Flowers are large and infrequent, with long flowering cycles varying from 30 to 40 years. The plant requires a tropical or subtropical climate to thrive.
Companion planting
Giant Bamboo can benefit from being planted alongside nitrogen-fixing trees and shrubs to improve soil fertility. Avoid planting it near smaller, sun-loving plants as it can cast dense shade. Consider planting leguminous ground covers to prevent soil erosion around the base of the bamboo clump.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through several methods: seed propagation, although seeds are rare and have a short viability period; culm cuttings with rhizomes attached; offset planting, which involves separating and replanting clumps; and occasionally tissue culture for mass propagation.
History and traditions
Giant Bamboo has a long history of use in Southeast Asia, particularly in construction and crafting. It has been used for centuries to build houses, bridges, and fences. In some cultures, it's associated with good luck and prosperity. The shoots are a traditional food source, and the culms are used in religious ceremonies and traditional festivals.
Usage calendar
New shoots typically emerge during the rainy season (May-October). Harvesting for timber can occur year-round, but is best done during the dry season (November-April) for easier handling and better curing. Planting is best done at the beginning of the rainy season. Flowering is infrequent and unpredictable.