Sasamorpha
(Sasamorpha borealis)
Sasamorpha (Sasamorpha borealis)
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© harum.koh
CC BY-SA 4.0
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© harum.koh
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CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo by: © harum.koh | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | Uploader: harumkoh | Publisher: iNaturalist |














Estimated Native Range
Summary
Sasamorpha borealis, commonly known as Sasamorpha, Broadleaf Bamboo, or Bamboo Sasa, is a perennial grass native to the understory of cool temperate forests, mountain slopes, and valleys in Eastern Asia, including Japan and parts of China. It exhibits a moderate growth rate, typically reaching heights of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) with an equal spread. This bamboo is characterized by its broad, evergreen leaves and dense, clumping habit, which can form extensive colonies. It does not produce notable flowers, as it is primarily grown for its foliage. The leaves are a deep green color and can provide a lush, tropical appearance in the garden.
Sasamorpha borealis is valued for its ability to create a dense ground cover and is often used for erosion control on slopes. It is also popular in shaded garden areas where other plants might struggle. In cultivation, it prefers part shade to full shade conditions and thrives in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, provided they have medium to fast drainage. Regular watering is necessary to keep the plant healthy, especially in drier climates. While generally low-maintenance, it can become invasive if not managed properly, so gardeners should consider containment measures such as root barriers.CC BY-SA 4.0
Sasamorpha borealis is valued for its ability to create a dense ground cover and is often used for erosion control on slopes. It is also popular in shaded garden areas where other plants might struggle. In cultivation, it prefers part shade to full shade conditions and thrives in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, provided they have medium to fast drainage. Regular watering is necessary to keep the plant healthy, especially in drier climates. While generally low-maintenance, it can become invasive if not managed properly, so gardeners should consider containment measures such as root barriers.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 3-6 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Cool temperate forests, mountain slopes, and valleys in Eastern Asia and Japan
Other Names
Common Names: Broadleaf Bamboo, Bamboo Sasa
Scientific Names: , Sasamorpha borealis, Arundinaria borealis, Arundinaria kurilensis var. spiculosa, Arundinaria munsuensis, Arundinaria purpurascens, Bambusa borealis, Bambusa purpurascens, Neosasamorpha tobaeana, Pseudosasa purpurascens
GBIF Accepted Name: