Baby bamboo grass quick facts

What is baby bamboo grass?

Baby bamboo grass (Pogonatherum paniceum) is a species of ornamental grass that is also called baby bamboo or baby panda bamboo. While it is commonly referred to as baby bamboo due to the fact that it looks bamboo-like, this grass is not a true bamboo (true bamboos are in subfamily Bambusoideae of the Grass Family).

Baby bamboo is small, compact, and clumping. It has narrow, feathery foliage. The stems have an elegant arching habit, which gives the grass a pleasing appearance. It can reach 2 feet (0.6 meters) tall. Baby bamboo is often used in small gardens, pots, or borders as a decorative plant. It can also be used as a ground cover due to its manageable size. 

Where is baby bamboo grass from?

Baby bamboo is native to South and Southeast Asia and the Arabian Peninsula. It is found natively in India, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia, among other countries. It is commonly grown both indoors and outdoors all over the world and has been introduced (meaning, that it can be found growing in the wild) to Sri Lanka and islands off the eastern coast of Africa, such as Madagascar and Réunion.

How is baby bamboo grass grown?

Baby bamboo grass is a subtropical grass and, therefore, thrives in warm conditions. It cannot survive cold temperatures and needs to be protected from frost. Baby bamboo can be grown indoors or outdoors in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade.

Baby bamboo grass is low-maintenance and can grow in many soil conditions. It can be planted directly in the ground or in containers with drainage holes. It requires regular watering and good drainage for healthy growth. 

How is baby bamboo grass used?

In Asia, baby bamboo grass originally was used as fodder but is now more commonly used as a houseplant. Baby bamboo grass is used for ornamental landscaping in gardens, borders, and other areas. Baby bamboo is used as indoor decor, decorating patios, balconies, and small gardens, and as a ground cover to suppress weeds and provide a lush appearance.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of baby bamboo grass?

Baby bamboo grass has aesthetic appeal and is low maintenance, making it easy for busy people or those new to gardening to cultivate. However, baby bamboo grass is not cold tolerant and requires indoor protection in areas with cold winters. Deer and pets may eat baby bamboo grass, leading to damage. While baby bamboo grass has not been listed as an invasive species, growing native plants might be better for wildlife in areas outside of its native range.