Incense Bamboo

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Phyllostachys congesta, commonly known as Incense Bamboo, is a cold-hardy running bamboo prized for both its structural beauty and unique aromatic quality. This species performs ex ceptionally well in areas with higher moisture and can tolerate wetland conditions once established, making it a strong candidate for challenging landscape sites. When the culm is lightly scratched, it releases a subtle, pleasant fragrance—an uncommon and memorable characteristic that gives this bamboo its name. Incense Bamboo develops long, perpendicular branches that create a dense, layered canopy. This branching habit makes it an outstanding choice for privacy screens, windbreaks, and natural property borders. Its upright growth and refined foliage provide year-round structure while maintaining a soft, elegant appearance in the landscape. Key Features: Cold hardy and resilient Tolerates wetter soil conditions Distinctive aromatic culms when scratched Strong perpendicular branching for dense screening Excellent for privacy hedges and natural barriers A distinctive and versatile screening bamboo that combines performance, beauty, and character. Why choose this bamboo? Perpendicular limbs give it a wide horizontal spread. Slower to expand than most species. Some notice a faint pleasant aroma. Phyllostachys Atrovaginata or 'Incense Bamboo' was formerly known as Congesta before a name change to Atrovaginata by the American Bamboo Society. This is a shorter bamboo at maturity than most bamboos of this genus. Congesta is a straight bamboo with limbs that run almost perpendicular to the cane. It has a darker foliage than many bamboos and is very hardy. It can withstand temperatures down to -5 degrees. Phyllostachys Congest 'Incense Bamboo' is one of the few Phyllostachys species suited to wetland sites and is very cold hardy. This bamboo actually has air channels within the roots which allow it to adapt to wet soil sites. Culms (canes) are green, nodes are very pronounced and the canes taper. Very upright culms. Excellent landscaping bamboo for damp planting sites. When the canes of this species are rubbed it gives off a slight scent of incense giving it the nickname 'Incense Bamboo'. Mature Height The height of your bamboo will be reduced in colder climates. Results may vary, however typically these matured sizes should be expected. When containerizing bamboo, it will not reach its full potential height. Climate Zone Expected Mature Height Zone 7 - 8 25' feet Zone 6 12' - 18' feet Zone 5 8' - 12' feet The culm sheath is short with a very triangular blade. The sheath's auricles and oral setae are absent. This bamboo is sought after and we always sell out each year. Plant introduction number (PI) into the U.S. 80149 Show more