Gigantochloa Sumatra Question

[nu2bamboo]

I just purchased a large division of Sumatra. I know that the min. temp is listed at 28 deg. but has anyone had experience with the Sumatra at temps lower than 28? If so, what damage was incurred? Also, is it a relatively quick growing bamboo?

Any info would be appreciated.

[mantis]

Leaf loss and branch damage starts around 29°F. Culm damage appears around 28°. I'm guessing if you get down to 26° it will die to the ground, but it hasn't been that cold since I put mine in the ground, so I can't say for sure.

As for growth rate... nothing special, but I think mine is slow to upsize because it gets damaged every winter.

[mr.mike]

I'll have to agree with mantis. Mine has taken a cold weather beating the last two winters. Results are top kill @ 28 deg & severe "wind suck" damage last winter and it never got below freezing. Also extreme culm sheath retention from year to year. Tends to look a little "tattered" mostly but when it puts out new leaf growth it's not so bad.

mike

[nu2bamboo]

Thanks. That's whay I was afraid of. I will try it out this winter and see if it makes it or not. If next winter is anything like this past winter it won't have a chance. Unfortunately, it is way too big to keep in a pot. Oh well.