Needmore Bamboo Co.
 
                         
         
Phyllostachys atrovaginata - This is a very enjoyable bamboo to grow in zone 6 and I always quickly sell out of this one. It forms larger diameter culms earlier than other species and as the culms quickly taper 'up culm', it makes them seem even fatter.  Likely to reach 2 inches in diameter this is the one for people who want a 'heavy' looking bamboo. It makes a fine privacy screen but not the best choice as it forms open groves due to its tendency to send rhizomes out far & wide. The overall form of the plant is perhaps my favorite with the small leaves, fat culms, and long branches.
   Winter damage will occur as temps start to get below zero with serious culm damage occurring shortly thereafter, I am skeptical about the usual rating of hardy to -15F, perhaps -5F to -8F is more likely and only when well established.  Now that mine is beginning to mature, it has started shooting later in the season and is one of my last Phyllostachys to do so.  If you want a privacy screen but large diameter culms are important then this is the one.		  
                         
               
                         
               
                         
         
                         
               
                         
         
2006
  
 
       
     
A little taller in 2007
       
     
       
       The new culms are much darker and have a white ring at the nodes.