Ditto with the verticality when shown with a plant of more horizontal shaping. With enough water they need little care except for repotting. The origin of this type of bamboo is unclear, however the actual shape of the stalks are structually beautiful and the idea of buddha belly as a bonsai accent plant would be outstanding. It has delicate small leaves resembling a real tree, but for interest it also has thorns. Can be potted in any container with or without holes, tolerates wet feet.
Many varieties resemble larger plant material but on a minature scale.
The plant only grows to about 2 inches, forms clumps and grows for me in a saucer with a large drainage hole. The few times I've used them I wanted something simple and linear to offset the twisted nature of my trees. Not too intrusive, but adds a nice complementary air to a planting. Absolutely beautiful 'wild' plants to totally contrast with the regimented, twisted, stringently maintained look of a bonsai. I like the way it spills over the edges of the pot to hide it.