Ha-Chiku (Phyllostachys nigra henonis)

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

Phyllostachys nigra henonis is an evergreen Bamboo growing to 6 m (19ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. 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).

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

taste and aroma. — Young shoots - cooked.; Somewhat acrid when raw, they are prepared for eating by boiling in one change of water, the water being changed after 8 - 10 minutes.; A distinctive taste and aroma.; The shoots, which are about 5cm 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

Fertile and moist places, also by streams. Open forests on slopes at elevations around 1200 metres. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)