Kei-Chiku (Phyllostachys makinoi)

Family: Poaceae or Gramineae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Phyllostachys makinoi is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 6 m (19ft 8in). 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 - cooked. They are usually boiled in at least one change of water. The shoots are 3 - 8cm in diameter, they are harvested in the spring when they are about 8cm above the ground, cutting them about 5cm below soil level. — Young shoots - cooked.; They are usually boiled in at least one change of water.; The shoots are 3 - 8cm in diameter, they are harvested in the spring when they are about 8cm above the ground, cutting them about 5cm below soil level.

Habitat & North American Range

Open forest at elevations up to 1500 metres. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)