Description
Chusquea culeou (also called Culeou bamboo, among many other common names) is a species of bamboo native to Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. It is a clumping bamboo, growing to a height of 8–10 m and a diameter of 2–3 cm. It grows in tropical and subtropical moist montane forests, at altitudes of 1,000–2,000 m.
Uses & Benefits
Chusquea culeou is used as an ornamental plant in landscaping and as a decorative plant in gardens. It is also used for making furniture, baskets, and other craft items. It is known to be a good source of food for birds and small animals.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Flower: small, greenish-white, borne in small, compact panicles. Seed: small, dark brown, ovoid. Seedlings: with 1-2 leaves, with a long sheath.
Cultivation and Propagation
Chusquea culeou can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds should be sown in spring in a warm, sunny location. Division should be done in the spring or fall. The plant should be divided into several smaller clumps and replanted in a sunny location.