unknown #3 (Phyllostachys mannii 'Decora')

[glenn smith]

I got a start of this from a local untended grove about three
years ago...

glenn

[Mark Meckes]

More great pics glenn! :)

My first guess is Phyllostachys rubromarginata (http://www.bamboocraft.net/bamboo/showgallery.php?cat=512) (pics at Bamboo Flora)

Some clues ...
- Maroon margins on the edge of the sheath
- Filamentous, extended ligule at the top of the sheath, (where the sheath blade starts)
- New culms have a light scattered fuzz which easily rubs off
- Larger culms do not have very prominent nodes

Your sheaths look somewhat darker in color than the pics I have posted at the gallery. Could this be from the time of day pics were taken/cloudy weather? Differences in climate? The sunlight is brutal here in Texas! :eek:

Edit Update July 5th '07: We've confirmed that this is Phyllostachys mannii 'Decora'
Mark

[glenn smith]

This time of year is often overcast w showers, and the culm sheaths are a beautiful, deep blue-black!
Our hot weather(if it comes)is usually mid-July through mid-september. I'll keep an eye on the plants and see if these are any hue changes if the sun comes out for more than an hour this year... ;-J
Thank you Mark!

glenn