Pseudosasa japonica – Arrow Bamboo for Fast Evergreen Screening
Pseudosasa japonica, commonly known as Arrow Bamboo, is a striking evergreen bamboo valued for its large glossy leaves and strong upright growth. Unlike many bamboos, it produces broad, rich green foliage that creates a dense, tropical appearance throughout the year.
Its vigorous growth habit makes it one of the best bamboos for creating fast, effective screening and privacy. The upright green canes and lush foliage form a dense living wall that provides shelter from wind and unwanted views while bringing movement and texture to the garden.
The large leaves give Pseudosasa japonica a distinctive exotic appearance, making it particularly suitable for contemporary gardens, Japanese-inspired landscapes, and tropical planting schemes.
Thriving in sun or partial shade, it prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil and responds well to regular watering during dry periods. As a running bamboo, it should be planted with an appropriate root barrier where spread needs to be controlled.
Hardy, resilient, and easy to grow, it tolerates urban conditions, coastal exposure, and a range of soil types once established.
Fast-growing, architectural, and highly effective for screening, Pseudosasa japonica is an excellent choice for adding year-round privacy and lush evergreen foliage to the garden.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Fresh new canes emerge from the base.
Summer: Dense glossy foliage creates a tropical effect.
Autumn: Evergreen screening remains thick and vibrant.
Winter: Maintains colour, structure, and privacy.
Key Features
Large leaves – Broad glossy tropical foliage.
Evergreen – Year-round screening and structure.
Fast growing – Quickly establishes privacy.
Architectural habit – Upright canes and dense growth.
Hardy – Reliable throughout the UK.
Perfect For
Screening – Fast evergreen privacy.
Contemporary gardens – Architectural planting.
Japanese gardens – Traditional bamboo character.
Tropical schemes – Lush exotic appearance.
Boundary planting – Wind and noise reduction.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Sun or partial shade.
Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil.
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK.
Care: Use a root barrier if restricting spread is required.
Looks Great With
Tree ferns – Woodland and exotic planting.
Fatsia – Bold evergreen foliage.
Musa – Tropical combinations.
Tetrapanax – Architectural contrast.
Grasses – Soft movement and texture.