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Arundinaria gigantea
river cane
Arundinaria gigantea
Arundinaria gigantea, also known as giant cane, is a bamboo species native to the southeastern United States. It's the only bamboo species native to North America. It can form dense canebrakes along rivers and in moist areas. It's characterized by its tall, woody culms (stems) and lance-shaped leaves. The plant is important for erosion control and provides habitat for various wildlife species. Flowering is rare and sporadic.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Estimated Plant Lifespan50 years lifespan
Sun Requirements2-4 hours direct sunlight (Partial Shade)
Pollination

Method: Wind

Notes: Flowering is infrequent. Manual pollination is not commonly practiced.

Watering Requirements

Method: Top water

Frequency: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment. Water more frequently during dry periods.

Notes: Avoid waterlogging.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate to High

Maintenance: Provide adequate moisture in the air, particularly in drier climates. Group planting can help increase local humidity.

Care InstructionsRemove dead or damaged culms to maintain plant health and aesthetics. Rhizome barriers can be used to control spread if desired.
Temperature Range

Min: -18°C

Max: 32°C

Alternative Namesgiant cane
Asimina triloba
common pawpaw
Asimina triloba
Pawpaw trees thrive in the understory and edges of forests, similar to Giant Cane. They also prefer moist, well-drained soils, creating a compatible pairing in a naturalized setting.
Osmunda regalis
European royal fern
Osmunda regalis
Royal ferns enjoy similar moist conditions as Giant Cane. The ferns' broad foliage provides a contrasting texture to the bamboo's narrow leaves, creating visual interest in a garden setting. They both also like shady conditions.
Liriodendron tulipifera
tulip tree
Liriodendron tulipifera

Tulip Poplar is a fast-growing tree that can quickly outcompete Giant Cane for sunlight and resources, particularly in areas with drier soils.

Acer negundo
box elder
Acer negundo

Boxelder is a fast-growing, aggressive tree that spreads quickly. It will compete with Arundinaria for water and nutrients, potentially overshadowing and stunting the bamboo's growth.

Bamboo Mites

Bamboo mites are tiny arachnids that suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing, stippling, and premature leaf drop. Heavy infestations can weaken the plant.

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth and suck sap, causing distorted leaves, stunted growth, and honeydew production. The honeydew can attract sooty mold.

Steps:

    • Dig up a mature clump of Arundinaria gigantea during the dormant season (late fall or early spring).
    • Carefully separate the rhizomes (underground stems) with a sharp knife or shovel, ensuring each division has healthy roots and at least one culm (stem).
    • Prepare a planting hole in a well-drained, moist location.
    • Plant the rhizome division at the same depth it was previously growing, ensuring the top of the rhizome is level with the soil surface.
    • Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until the plant is established.

Neem Oil

Effective for controlling aphids and bamboo mites, a natural insecticide and miticide.

Compost Tea

Boosts plant health and vigor, helping it resist pest infestations.