Fargesia jiuzhaigou IV ‘Black Cherry’

Fargesia jiuzhaigou is a species of clumping bamboo that includes many sub-varieties. ‘Black Cherry’ is a beautiful and sought-after clumping bamboo — especially for its dramatic color changes.

It stands out as its dark green, slender arching canes emerge and blush dark purple providing a visually stunning plant.

Height:

  • Height: Typically 8–16 feet tall at maturity

  • Spread: Forms a tight clump, about 3–5 feet wide

  • Growth Rate: Moderate; faster once established

  • Form: Upright and elegant — one of the more vertical-growing Fargesias, perfect for narrow spaces

Light requirements:

  • Part Shade to Part Sun:

    • Best growth with morning sun and afternoon shade; Prefers a light amount of dappled, late afternoon shade

    • In cooler climates, can tolerate more sun (and more sun will deepen culm color)

    • Too much intense afternoon sun in hot climates can cause leaf curl or stress

Growth Habit:

  • New shoots appear in early spring and late summer.

  • Culms (canes):

    • Start out green, but as they mature, they turn deep burgundy to nearly black — especially in cooler temperatures or fuller sun

    • The Black Cherry name comes from the dark reddish-black coloration

    • Young shoots have contrasting lighter sheaths that drop off as the cane matures

  • Leaves:

    • Small, narrow, and delicate

    • Fine-textured, bright green, adding a soft, airy look

  • Seasonal Color Shifts:

    • In cooler autumn or spring weather, the culm colors intensify dramatically

  • A pot of jiuzhaigou planted in the ground can expand a foot or so in annual circumference. 6 feet of diameter is a recommended minimum for uncrowded, healthy growth.

  • Mowing and/or line trimming is an effective means to curtail spread. Planting in a one foot mound of soil can further help maintain the shape of the grove.

Why choose ‘Black Cherry’?

  • it is known for the combination of its dark burgundy culms and vibrant, delicate green foliage, making it a striking feature plant in any garden or landscape.

  • Spectacular Cane Color: One of the best Fargesias for colorful culms

  • Non-Invasive Clumping Habit: Safe for small gardens

  • Cold Tolerance + Elegance: Rare combination of hardy and highly ornamental

  • Hardy to about USDA Zone 5 (down to -20°F / -29°C)

  • Extremely cold-hardy and a great choice for colder gardens where many bamboos can't survive