We're offering you a Bamboo 'Black Dragon' Plants for £9.99, saving you up to 33% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £14.99 (correct as of 02.06.2026).

Non-invasive plant

Bamboo 'Black Dragon' (Phyllostachys nigra var. 'Black Dragon') is an evergreen ornamental grass renowned for its dramatic near-black stems and lush foliage. Unlike running bamboos, this clumping variety is non-invasive—making it a smart choice for UK gardens seeking year-round structure without the worry of unwanted spread.

Why Choose 'Black Dragon' Bamboo?

• Striking Appearance: Near-black canes provide bold contrast against greenery, instantly catching the eye.
• Year-Round Interest: Evergreen leaves ensure your garden stays vibrant through every season.
• Natural Movement: Graceful, arching stems create a fountain-like effect, adding texture and motion to beds or containers.
• Space-Saving: Clumping habit means this bamboo remains compact and easy to manage—ideal for borders, patio pots, or as a feature plant.

Growing Guide

• Planting Location: Prefers partial shade but will tolerate full sun in moist, well-drained soil.
• Mature Size: Typically reaches 2–3m (6–10ft) in height in UK conditions; width remains controlled due to its clumping nature.
• Soil Preference: Grows best in fertile, humus-rich soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH.
• Watering: Keep soil moist during establishment; once mature, it is relatively drought tolerant.
• Hardiness: Hardy across most of the UK (RHS H5), tolerating winter temperatures down to -15°C.

Planting & Care

• Best Planting Time: Plant in spring or early autumn for strong root development.
• Caring Tips: Mulch annually to conserve moisture and feed with general-purpose fertiliser in spring.
• Pruning: Remove dead or weak stems at ground level in late winter to maintain shape and vigour.

Garden Design Ideas

• Borders & Screens: Use as a living screen or backdrop for flowering perennials like hostas or ferns.
• Pots & Containers: Perfect for patios where you want architectural interest without invasive roots.
• Tropical Themes: Pair with Japanese maples or ornamental grasses for a striking contrast in leaf form and colour.

FAQs

• When is the best time to plant Bamboo 'Black Dragon'?
  The ideal times are spring or early autumn when soil is warm and moist, giving roots time to establish before extreme weather.
• How fast does it grow?
  'Black Dragon' bamboo has a moderate growth rate, reaching mature height (2–3m) within 4–6 years under average UK conditions.
• What type of soil does it prefer?
  This bamboo thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH. Avoid waterlogged sites for best results.