Phyllostachys edulis 'Heterocycla'
(Tortoise Shell Bamboo)
- Height: 30 - 50 feet (9 - 17m)
- Max. Diameter: 4" (10cm)
- Hardiness: -18°F (0°F)
- USDA Zone: 6b
- Light: Full Sun
Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla, also known as the Tortoise Shell Bamboo, has internodes resembling that of a tortoise shell. In Japan, it is refered to as 'Kikko' meaning Tortoise shell. The internodes alternatingly face eachother on either side. However, this characteristic is only present on the first several feet at the base of the plant. It then continues growing straight with regular internodes for the remaining height of the plant.
The unique and rare characteristics of this plant make it highly ornamental. This bamboo is extremely rare in North America presently.

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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko1_lg.jpgKikko forest with undergrowth.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko2_lg.jpgKikko forest in its natural habitat in China.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko3_lg.jpgKikko in a garden.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko4_lg.jpgCloseup displaying the unique alternating slanting internodes of Kikko.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko5_lg.jpgNew shoots.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko6_lg.jpgCloseup of the internodes of a fresh new shoot.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko7_lg.jpgHere is Kikko grown in a pot.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko8_lg.jpgGrove of Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko9_lg.jpgCloseup of the tortoise shell characteristics of the culm.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko10_lg.jpgNew Shoots.
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Phyllostachys edulis Heterocycla
/img/species/kikko/kikko11_lg.jpgKikko in it's natural environment.