Borinda ferax, commonly known as Yunnan Blue Bamboo or Hardy Blue Bamboo, is an evergreen shrub-like bamboo native to the understory of mountain forests and shaded hillsides in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Yunnan province of China. It exhibits a clumping growth habit and can rapidly reach a height of 10-30 feet (3-9 meters), with culms that are initially blue-green, turning to a more olive hue with age. The foliage is lush and evergreen, providing year-round interest. This bamboo species is valued for its attractive, powdery blue canes and its ability to create a dense screen or focal point in the garden.

Yunnan Blue Bamboo is appreciated for its relatively fast growth and its adaptability to a range of light conditions, from full sun to part shade. It prefers medium or fast-draining soils such as clay, loam, or sandy types and requires consistent moisture for optimal growth. While it is a hardy bamboo, it is less invasive than some other species, making it a good choice for residential gardens where controlled growth is desired. It can be used as a specimen plant, in mass plantings for privacy screens, or as a backdrop in mixed borders. Gardeners should be aware that it may require protection from cold winds and extreme temperatures in cooler climates.CC BY-SA 4.0