Phyllostachys parvifolia

A potential giant even in cooler areas, this bamboo grows with an average height of 7 m (23 ft) reaching up to 12 m (39 ft) or more with a maximum culm diameter of 10 cm (3.9 in).[1][2] New culms are dark green, paling with age, [1] with a white ring appearing under each node.[2] Branches are short and leaves are small for a bamboo of the genus Phyllostachys.[1] Culm sheath colors of purple-red or brown fade or stripe into light colors of tan or yellow-white further up.[3] Like water bamboo, the rhizomes and roots of this species have air canals as an adaptation for living in wet soil.[2]

This bamboo grows in areas ranging from subtropical to temperate and tolerates winter temperatures down to −21 to −26 °C (−6 to −15 °F)[2] being a more cold hardy bamboo.[4] Its natural distribution in Asia is limited primarily to Zhejiang Province[1] of China, where it is cultivated.[3] Due to difficulties in propagation, availability in cultivation is limited.[1]

Its common name Anji golden bamboo refers to Anji County of Zhejiang Province.[5] The specific epithet parvifolia means "small-leaved".

This species is grown mainly for edible shoots, while the culms have general purpose uses.[3] Harvested moderately early, the shoots are of excellent flavor.[2]