Dragon Head Bamboo

(Fargesia dracocephala)

Dragon Head Bamboo (Fargesia dracocephala)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Fargesia dracocephala, commonly known as Dragon Head Bamboo, is an evergreen perennial grass native to the understory of mountainous forests and alpine regions in North Central and South Central China. It typically grows to a height of 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters) and a width of 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters), forming dense clumps with arching canes. The foliage is lush and green, providing a textured appearance throughout the year. Dragon Head Bamboo is notable for its resistance to flowering, which can be a problem for some bamboo species, as they die after blooming. It does not produce notable flowers or fruit, but its foliage is the main attraction.

Dragon Head Bamboo is valued for its hardiness and non-invasive clumping growth habit, making it a popular choice for creating natural screens or hedges in gardens. It is also used in container gardening and as an ornamental feature in Asian-themed gardens. This bamboo prefers a sheltered location with protection from strong winds and is tolerant of a range of light conditions, from full sun to part shade. It requires consistent moisture but is relatively low maintenance once established. While it is a significant source of food for the giant panda in the wild, it is rarely used for this purpose in cultivation.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 8-10 feet
  • Width: 6-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Deer Resistant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Understory of mountainous forests and alpine regions in North Central and South Central China

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Fargesia dracocephala, Thamnocalamus dracocephalus,

GBIF Accepted Name: Fargesia dracocephala T.P.Yi