Bambusa lako also known as Timor Black Bamboo, is a tropical clumping bamboo native to Indonesia. This bamboo species is easily recognised by its striking shiny black culms and is often used for ornamental and landscaping purposes. Bambusa lako is closely related to thye species Gigantochloa atroviolacea from which it was separated in 1997.
| Plant Info | |
|---|---|
| Height | 12 – 15 m |
| Diameter | 3 – 8 cm |
| Growth Habit | Clumping |
| Climate | Tropical – Subtropical |
| Hardiness | -4°C |
| Origin | Indonesia |
Culms
The thick walled woody culms of Bambusa lako have an average diameter between 3-8 cm, and are between 12-15 m tall (although culms can grow up to 21 m under optimal climate and soil condition). Young internodes are initially green but turn shiny black at maturity with some thin green and sometimes yellow striping. The internodes are on average between 23-35 cm long.
Branches
Nodes contain a central dominant branch with several smaller branches.
Leaves
The leaves of Bambusa lako are long, narrow and bright green between 14–25 cm long, and 24–32 mm wide.
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical climate.
Uses
Ornamental and landscaping.
Origin
Bambusa lako is native to Indonesia (Lesser Sunda Islands).
And they itch like hell if you touch, brushup against, and even feel discomfort in the air on a windy day. Your eyes itch and burn your arms feel like someone is poking you with needles and go without a shirt doing a little lawn work and the little black spikes "like powder" stick to your sweat.. if you touch that bamboo and rub your eyes.. your f-ed and going to be taking a trip to the emergency room!! This Bamboo was sent as a curse for Americans to plant and destroy there beautiful lawns by choice and never be rid of the itchy menace! I will for ever grow only native plants species, never will I put what my neighbor put in his yard.. this Bamboo menace!
⚠️ People with children be warned! ⚠️