Umbrella Bamboo Seeds - Clumping Evergreen

Elegant, fast-growing, and non-invasive, Umbrella Bamboo (Fargesia spathacea / murielae 'Franch') offers the beauty of traditional bamboo without the headache of spreading rhizomes. This clumping evergreen species forms graceful vertical canes surrounded by lush, arching foliage—perfect for privacy screens, garden borders, or container growing in modern landscapes.

Unlike aggressive runners, Umbrella Bamboo stays where you plant it. It grows steadily into a tight clump that matures at 8 to 12 feet tall, offering year-round greenery in zones 5 through 9. Its upright form and soft foliage make it a calming presence in any setting—from shaded woodland gardens to structured urban patios.

We grow Fargesia species for their refined look and reliability. They’re shade-tolerant, deer-resistant, and cold-hardy, making them suitable for a wide range of climates. And when started from seed, you gain full control over soil, location, and long-term health—without transplant shock.

🌱 Why Grow Umbrella Bamboo Seeds

• Non-invasive clumping growth habit (won’t spread aggressively)
  
• Ideal for living fences, privacy screens, or container accents
  
• Cold-hardy and shade-tolerant (zones 5–9)
  
• Lush evergreen foliage adds year-round texture
  
• Grows 8–12 feet tall in tight, upright form
  
• Perfect for Zen gardens, modern landscapes, and naturalistic design

🌿 Growing Tips

• Start seeds indoors in seed trays or pots with light, well-drained soil
  
• Keep consistently moist but not soggy—use a humidity dome if needed
  
• Provide bright indirect light during germination
  
• Transplant outdoors when seedlings are 4–6 inches tall and threat of frost has passed
  
• Choose a site with morning sun or filtered shade
  
• Space clumps 3–5 feet apart for a dense screen or wider for a looser effect
  
• Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

How tall does Umbrella Bamboo grow?
Mature clumps reach 8 to 12 feet tall with a spread of 3 to 5 feet.

Will this bamboo take over my yard?
No. Fargesia species are clumping, not running, and will not spread aggressively.

Is it suitable for cold climates?
Yes. Umbrella Bamboo is hardy down to USDA zone 5 and performs well in cool, shaded environments.

Can I grow this in full sun?
Partial shade is preferred, especially in hotter climates, but morning sun with afternoon shade works well.

How long does it take to grow from seed?
Germination takes 2–6 weeks. Full maturity develops over 3–5 years, but you’ll see healthy growth in the first season.

Does it stay green year-round?
Yes. This is an evergreen bamboo species, retaining its foliage even in winter.