Facts & knowledge about bamboo
Bamboo is a remarkable plant that grows quickly, is environmentally friendly and has a wide range of uses. From sustainable textiles to strong building materials, bamboo is gaining ground as a greener alternative. Here we delve into some facts about bamboo.
Facts about bamboo
Botanically, bamboo belongs to the woody grasses (Bambusoideae) and includes 1,575 species in 111 genera. As the only grass species, bamboo can develop into forests. Although many species resemble trees, they differ significantly: Bamboo reaches its full height in one season and then forms several lateral branches, while trees grow in both diameter and height year by year. Instead of bark, young bamboo shoots are protected by leaves in their early stages.
Many different species
Bamboo consists of many different species with unique growth rates. Some grow up to 1 meter per day in optimal soil and climate conditions and can reach up to 40 meters. Others grow only a few centimeters. Some bamboo species bloom up to 60 years apart and the flowering is often synchronized over large areas. The plants wither completely after flowering, but soon after new shoots grow, after which the cycle continues.
Where does bamboo grow?
Bamboo grows primarily in Africa, Asia, America and Australia. The plantations have a positive climate effect, as bamboo absorbs four times more CO2 and produces 35% more oxygen than trees. The bamboo roots remain in the soil when harvested, which reduces deforestation and frees up space for other crops. Around 100 species are used commercially, of which 20 are used in plantations – none of which are food for pandas, and they are grown outside their natural habitats.
A resistant plant
Bamboo is a very resilient plant and the only one to survive the radiation from the bombing of Hiroshima. Bamboo only needs small amounts of sun and water to grow, making it a non-resource intensive crop. Bamboo shoots may require a little pesticide when planted on wasteland, but their natural antibacterial properties protect them naturally from pests and fungus.
