Name
Chusquea culeou
About
Chusquea culeou is the most variable of the species due to its wide distribution in South America from high forests to open grassland. Coueou is easily distinguished by the multitude of branches that grow from each node and tend to nearly encircle the culm. This gives it a very distinctive look, and is what gives this bamboo its common name - the fox tail Bamboo.
It has a bold, open yet clumping habit, and is best used as a solitary specimen where it can be easily seen and cherished. The nursery has one on the bank, and it has started to look really good after 3 years.
What you get
You will receive a 7.5ltr pot, with a bamboo standing 2/3ft tall with 5-6 culms.
Planting and Care
Plant with the addition of some organic matter and water in well. Do not let the plant dry out. If it's in the ground ensure to water it for the first 6 months, after this amount of time it should look after itself. However if in a pot it will still require regular watering. The best food a bamboo can have is its own dead leaves and culm sheaths, so leave them to mulch the base of the plant.
Planting position
Chusquea culeou is best used as a specimin bamboo planted where it can be seen and admired. It will grow in full sun or semi shade.
Soil
Any reasonable soil is ok, add organic matter to help the bamboo establish.
Container growing
Chuquea culeou looks its best in the ground, however as it is a clump forming bamboo it is suited to growing in a pot too. Use a good loam based compost when planting in a pot, feed it regulalry and don't let it dry out.
Height and Spread
This Bamboo can reach 5m-7m in height. It should spread about 2m in ten years.
