Bamboo

[Jayburd]

Hi All,
apparently I'm not allowed to keep bamboo, even in a pot, so what's a type of plant that's npot bamboo which grows to about the same hight, and is as near to bamboo as you can think of?
Thanks ;)
Jay

[iaos]

I think you can get clumping bamboo that won't run like normal bamboo!! Is that the reason you can't have it?

[Jayburd]

mostly, apparently it's illegal in canberra???? I don't think so, seeing as heaps of people have it, but the commander is adamant.j

[triplea]

I think the commander may be right.
Some plants sold as clumping are in fact not and could get out of hand.

Here is a link http://www.ozbreed.com.au/index.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

There are many strappy leaved plants I think would suit your project.
Maybe not the effect you want to achieve with bamboo, but just as good.
You have put so much effort into this. Keep it up

[Jayburd]

Thanks Triplea
yeah I was after the tall many-stemmed effect bamboo brings, apparently it's enjoyed by parrotfinches & weavers?
will have a further look through the site as well

[GregH]

Your mother may not like bamboo but it's not on the noxious weeds list for the ACT - here's the link for grasses. Most bamboos are frost sensative, monopodial (running) and grow too big for an aviary but there are some that would suit but they aren't to be spoken about. Have you considered Japanese Sacred Bamboo, Nandina domestica, rest assured it's NOT a bamboo.

[Jayburd]

really? that's very helpful, thanks ;)
That looks very nice! I will do some research!

[gomer]

Nice little bamboo the sacred.I potted some a few months ago, its not going to good but that might be because i put some fert on it.

[VR1Ton]

Nandinas are slow growing, & don't quote me on this, but I think the berries may be toxic. I've got one in the front yard, never seen anything, includeing the chooks, eat the berries. Nandina domestica 'Nana' Dwarf Sacred Bamboo may be a better choice, grows about 1-1.5m & is alot bushier, mine is over 25 years old & I have never seen it flower, so berries won't be an issue.

[wagga]

Had a friend who had great success with Japanese Sacred Bamboo, Nandina domestica, in his weaver aviary. It is slow growing, so he asked the local gardening and landscaping contractors to keep any old growth plants - root ball and all - removed from clients houses.
Sacred bamboo was very popular 15 -20 years ago, used alot in unit complexes due to their hardiness. So look in old gardens around your neighbourhood and ask if they could spare a plant or two. Might save you time and money.