Indocalamus tessellatus, commonly known as large-leaved bamboo, is an evergreen bamboo species native to the understory of broadleaf forests in China. It is particularly adapted to the shaded, moist, and well-drained soils found in these environments. This medium-sized bamboo can reach up to 7 feet in height and is notable for its exceptionally broad leaves, which can be up to 24 inches long and 4 inches wide. The weight of the leaves often causes the slender canes to arch gracefully.

Large-leaved bamboo is valued for its ornamental foliage and its ability to create dense thickets, providing a lush, tropical effect in gardens. It is hardy to -15°C and prefers semi-shade, thriving in moist, rich soil. While it can spread to form large groves in ideal conditions, it is also suitable for container cultivation, which can help control its spread. In the UK, it has been recognized with the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. Gardeners should be aware that, like many bamboos, it can become invasive if not managed properly, so measures such as root barriers may be necessary. It is often used in gardens for screening purposes, as a focal point, or as part of an Asian-themed garden design.CC BY-SA 4.0