Bamboos never look their best in winter because the cold, drying winds will often scorch their leaves. In late spring however, new canes will appear bearing a fresh batch of lush foliage.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This wonderful foliage plant naturally forms a dense shrubby bush, which makes it perfect for adding textural interest to mixed borders. It's happiest when grown in partial shade, although it can also be planted in a sunnier spot provided it is kept well watered throughout the warmer weather. It looks great in a pot, and if planted densely enough, it can also be used as taller groundcover. It's a great addition to both small and large gardens, and although it does have short, spreading rhizomes, it won't spread vigorously and take over the whole garden!
  
  
• Garden care: Keep well fed and watered during the warmer weather. Protect young shoots (which tend to appear earlier than other bamboos) from slugs and snails. Divide in spring, and if necessary snip off leaf tips and margins that may have become papery in winter.