Fargesia fungosa, commonly known as Chocolate Bamboo, is an evergreen perennial grass native to the understory of mountainous forests in South Central China. It typically reaches a height of 12-15 feet (4-5 meters) and has a clumping habit with narrow culms, usually about 0.1-0.2 feet (0.03-0.06 meters) in diameter. The culms are initially green but age to a chocolate brown, hence the common name. Chocolate Bamboo does not flower frequently, and when it does, the flowers are not particularly showy. It is often used in gardens for its attractive foliage and non-invasive clumping growth habit.

Chocolate Bamboo is valued for its hardiness and adaptability to a range of conditions, though it prefers cooler climates and does not tolerate extreme heat well. It is ideal for creating privacy screens or as a feature plant in Asian-themed gardens. In cultivation, it requires part shade to protect it from intense sunlight, consistent moisture, and well-drained soil to prevent root rot. It is relatively low maintenance but may require occasional thinning to maintain its shape. Chocolate Bamboo is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a suitable choice for residential gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0