Kuma bamboo grass (Sasa veitchii) Genus:  Sasa This dwarf bamboo has deep-green leaves that become bicolored with the onset of autumn. The leaves then exhibit straw-colored margins, which persist into spring in warmer zones. It is a striking plant en masse or as groundcover in a woodland garden. It usually grows to 2 or 3 feet tall, but may reach 5 feet tall in deep shade. Noteworthy Characteristics:  These Southeast Asian bamboos thrive in moist, deep woodlands, and thus are at home in shady gardens. Use in both formal and naturalistic plantings: as groundcovers at the base of trees and shrubs, isolated or planted en masse, and next to other plants that contrast and highlight Sasa foliage.  Care:  Plants may spread by 1 foot per year; curb growth by planting a 2-foot deep barrier around desired area. Grow in rich, moist, well-drained soil in sun to deep shade. Propagation:  Divide young rhizomes or sections of rhizomes in spring. Problems:  Slugs, snails.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread Over 30 ft. Growth Habit Runs Growth Pace Fast Grower, Invasive/Aggressive Grower Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Foliage Foliage Color Evergreen Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Naturalizing, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Style Shade, Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Frost Tolerant Type Grasses