Fargesia scabrida ‘Silver Dragon’
Fargesia scabrida 'Silver Dragon' is another stunning, clumping, non-invasive bamboo variety—known for its distinctive appearance and excellent garden performance.
Size:
Height: Grows to around 10–14 feet (3–4.5 meters) at maturity
Spread: Forms a tight clump around 4–6 feet wide
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Culms (canes):
New shoots emerge deep purple or reddish with a striking sheen
Mature to green or olive, sometimes with a bluish blush at the base
The contrast with silver-white leaf sheaths is what gives it the ‘Silver Dragon’ name
Light requirements:
Light: Thrives in part shade to full sun (prefers some protection from harsh midday sun in hot climates)
Hardiness: USDA Zones 6–9
Cold Tolerance: Can tolerate cold down to around -15°F (-26°C)
Growth Habit:
New shoots appear in early spring and late summer.
A pot of scabrida 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. Root barrier is still a strong consideration for protecting property lines.
Standout features:
Ornamental Coloration: Vibrant purple/red culms + silver/white sheaths = striking visual appeal
Non-Invasive Habit: Like all Fargesias, it grows in tight clumps, making it perfect for smaller gardens
Versatility: Great as a screen, hedge, specimen plant, or even in large containers
Wildlife-Friendly: Provides cover and habitat for birds, but isn’t aggressive or weedy
Spacing and planting considerations:
A single pot of scabrida can eventually provide 6’+ of lateral privacy at the base. Canes have an outward arch providing additional canopy span.
To create a continuous hedge, space new plantings 3’ - 5’.
Can be shaped and hedged with a conventional hedge trimmer.
