Bambusa ventricosa, commonly known as Buddha Bamboo or Buddha Belly Bamboo, is a perennial herbaceous bamboo native to the subtropical forests of Vietnam and Guangdong province in southern China. It is characterized by its unusual internodal swelling, which gives the culms a bulbous appearance, particularly when grown in pots or under stressed conditions. This species can reach up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) in height and is notable for its lush, green foliage and the unique shape of its stems.

Buddha Bamboo is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its distinctive swollen internodes that are especially pronounced when the plant is pot-grown or subjected to certain environmental stresses. It is often used in traditional Asian garden design, as well as for creating privacy screens and hedges in warm climates. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, requires moderate watering, and thrives in well-draining soil. While it is relatively easy to maintain, it can become invasive if not managed properly, spreading through its rhizomes. To prevent unwanted spread, it can be grown in containers or with root barriers. Buddha Bamboo is also popular in the art of bonsai, where its unique features are highlighted through careful cultivation techniques.CC BY-SA 4.0