Phyllostachys vivax is among the tallest bamboo that can be grown in the Northwest. High forming branches give vivax an arborescent appearance, making it a good choice for shielding 2nd and 3rd story windows or above fence lines while keeping an airy understory. It's realistic to expect 30'+ canes within five years from a relatively small grove. Wide and long dark green leaves lend it a tropical look. Ours has been very easy to keep contained using the mounding/root prune technique. Vivax also grows well in large containers and makes a great choice as a deck plant or patio privacy.
'Aureocaulis' is the buttery yellow form of vivax and it doesn't disappoint as a compliment attracting feature plant. It often exhibits varying widths of vertical green stripes for added wow factor. Plant vivax on the S/SW/W side of the yard in full sun if possible. The morning and setting sunlight streaming through the glowing yellow canes is beautiful, there really isn't anything quite like it.
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