One of the most impressive of the striped bamboos, Gold Vivax Bamboo, Phyllostachys vivax 'Aureocaulis', also commonly called Green Stripe Bamboo, is a spectacular rare collector species that has not been in the U.S. long. A majestic giant with bright yellow canes and random dark green stripes of varying widths is distinctive and truly remarkable. It is the most cold hardy of the large timber bamboos and establishes very quickly. The oral setae and auricles are absent from the culm sheaths. There is also white pin striping on many of the green leaves. A fast grower to 60 to 70 feet tall in warmer climates and maybe 30 to 40 feet in cooler climates, this bamboo forms a grove of large, 5 inch diameter culms. Gold Vivax likes as much sun as you can give it for best coloration but will grow in part shade. Cold hardy to -5°F.

USDA Zone 7:  60 feet or more in height

USDA Zone 6:  average 30 feet in height

Gold Vivax Bamboo is easy to grow in any average, well-drained but moist soil and full to mostly sun, though because of its large leaves will tolerate part shade. During the first growing season after planting, water as needed to keep soil around the plants moist, but not soggy or wet. When established, most bamboo will tolerate periods of dry weather, however, will appreciate an occasional deep soaking if the leaves begin to curl from drought stress.

Click on the links below to find helpful advice from our experts on how to plant and care for Bamboo plants.