This bamboo is part of the Timber Bamboo family. In the Northwest it will grow to about 35 feet and can have a diameter of 3 inches once established. It prefers full sun and is very cold tolerant. Deep green culms and a black to purple sulcus (groove) with plentiful leaves in the upper story make this a very handsome grass indeed. It has thick walled stalks (culms) and is an excellent source of wood for crafts and garden features.