The rhizome, however, continues to branch and produce new shoots, until the grove flowers. After flowering, the entire grove often dies. Habitats In mountainous regions of China, natural stands of temperate bamboo form a middle story in deciduous and coniferous forests. The shallow rhizome competes little with the deep roots of mature trees. But bamboo is most common in relatively pure stands between forest and farmland, on steep banks of streams and rivers, where the rhizomes bind erosion-prone soil and the culms are convenient for use in adjacent villages and farms.
Most species appreciate warmth, humidity and partial shade.
Unprotected south to west slopes should be avoided. Bamboos will grow in a wide variety of soils, but prefer slightly acid, well-drained sandy loam. Propagation and Management Bamboo is generally propagated by rhizome cuttings. Rhizomes radiate from the base of a culm in the top two feet of soil. They are best dug while dormant, in February, cleanly severed and protected from dehydration.