Is there a native Bamboo in my area? - Ask Extension
There are stands of bamboo growing in the wooded area in my backyard. Do I need to go through the trouble of identifying exactly what type it is befo...
Knowledgebase
Is there a native Bamboo in my area? #779839
Asked January 06, 2022, 2:31 PM EST
There are stands of bamboo growing in the wooded area in my backyard. Do I need to go through the trouble of identifying exactly what type it is before removing it? I ask because if the US native bamboos (A. gigantea, A. tecta, A. appalachiana) are not found in Montgomery County Maryland piedmont woodlands, then I can assume it is invasive and work to remove it.
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
There is only one bamboo that is native to Maryland, Arundinaria gigantea ssp. tecta (a.k.a Switch Cane). It is considered 'state rare' but has been found in your area according to this page from the Maryland Biodiversity Project:
https://www.marylandbiodiversity.com/view/3927
We think you are likely safe removing what you have but there are multiple photos and info there to compare.
Here is our resource page on removing/controling bamboo:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/containing-and-removing-bamboo
Christine
