Family: Poaceae
Origin, Description & Uses
Dendrocalamus asper, commonly known as giant bamboo, is a large tropical bamboo native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is one of the tallest and most impressive clumping (non-running) bamboos in the world, producing thick-walled culms that can reach over 60 feet in height and up to 8 inches in diameter. The lush green canes emerge from tight clumps and are complemented by long, arching leaves that create a graceful, tropical appearance. Giant bamboo is widely cultivated for construction, scaffolding, furniture, crafts, and edible shoots, which are considered a delicacy in many Asian cuisines. It is also planted as a windbreak, privacy screen, and ornamental feature in large landscapes.
Risks & Threats
In Hawai‘i, giant bamboo is considered low risk. As a clumping bamboo, it expands gradually outward from the base rather than spreading aggressively through long underground runners. While it can form dense stands if not maintained, it is generally manageable in cultivated settings and does not readily invade natural areas. Proper site selection and routine thinning can prevent overcrowding and limit spread. At this time, it is not known to pose significant ecological threats in the Hawaiian Islands when responsibly planted and maintained.
High Risk Traits:
- Reported to be naturalized (but area of origin uncertain)
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Shade-tolerant
- Tolerates many soil conditions (and potentially able to exploit many different habitat types)
- Will resprout after repeated cutting or harvesting of shoots and culms (may be difficult to remove from unwanted areas)
Low Risk Traits:
- Despite ability to spread, no negative impacts have been documented
- Non-toxic
- Edible shoots
- Landscaping and ornamental value
- A sympodial, or clumping bamboo
- Flowering occurs in plants that are 100120 years old
- Lack of seed production until possibly at the end of long life cycle
