Pleioblastus distichus, commonly known as Dwarf Bamboo, is a deciduous, perennial grass native to the understory of forests and mountain slopes in Japan. This species typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and spreads via rhizomes to form dense thickets. Dwarf Bamboo has a compact, clumping form with fine-textured, green leaves arranged in two ranks, giving it a distinctive appearance. It does not commonly produce flowers or notable fruit, as it primarily spreads vegetatively.

Dwarf Bamboo is valued for its low maintenance and ability to form a dense ground cover quickly, making it suitable for erosion control and as a privacy screen in garden settings. It is also used in container gardens and as an accent plant in Asian-themed gardens. In cultivation, Pleioblastus distichus requires moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. It is important to contain its spread, as it can become aggressive if not managed properly. Regular pruning or the installation of rhizome barriers can help control its growth.CC BY-SA 4.0