It consists largely of silica, which is not desirable to insects and inhibits diseases. Most bamboos are evergreen in temperate climates. There are 70 genera and 2400 known species. Heights range from 2 inches to 100 feet.
Culms can be black, blue, yellow, pink, brown, or green.
Leaves may be variegated green and white or green and yellow. Collectible - Our collectors list includes approximately 70 additional species, many of which are rare and unusual. Edible - All bamboos are edible. The Phyllostachys are most commonly used for eating because the shoots are large in diameter. The growth pattern of bamboo differs from that of most woody plants.