Bamboo

Phyllostachys aurea (Poaceae) is a running bamboo native to China. It reaches 25 to 35 feet tall with upright, green to golden-yellow culms (canes) typically 1 to 2 inches in diameter. The culms develop distinctive compressed internodes near the base, giving a tortoiseshell-like pattern.

Golden bamboo spreads aggressively by underground rhizomes and requires a physical root barrier or regular rhizome pruning to contain. It grows in full sun to part shade on moist, well-drained soil. The species is invasive in warm climates. Culms can be harvested for crafts, stakes, and light construction. Hardy in Zones 6b to 10.