Sweetshoot Bamboo (Phyllostachys dulcis)

Family: Poaceae or Gramineae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Phyllostachys dulcis is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 7 m (23ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young shoots - raw or cooked. Free of any acridity, they make excellent eating. Used in salads, soups, stews etc, this is one of the most highly esteemed edible bamboos in China. — Young shoots - raw or cooked.; Free of any acridity, they make excellent eating.; Used in salads, soups, stews etc, this is one of the most highly esteemed edible bamboos in China.; The shoots, which are 4 - 6cm in diameter, are harvested in the spring when they are about 8cm above the ground, cutting them about 5cm below soil level.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)