Needmore Bamboo Co.
 
               
         
Phyllostachys aureosulcata 'Aureocaulis'- Sharing the same growth characteristics as Aureosulcata proper, this beauty offers the zone 6 gardener a colorful alternative to green culm screening bamboos. The orange-golden culms contrast wonderfully with dark green leaves which have the occasional cream colored stripe.  As with many of the yellow culm bamboos, new culms of 'Aureocaulis' will turn a brilliant burgundy color for several weeks in early summer, fading back to their orange-gold by late summer.    Although widely cultivated, there tends to be a very limited amount of 'Aureocaulis' in the market place and this combined with its ornamental features makes this one of the more expensive screening choices. Still for those who want an eye popping privacy screen, the extra cost is well worth it.   
    Winter damage will occur as temps start to get below zero with serious culm damage occurring shortly thereafter, I am skeptical about the usual rating of hardy to -15F, perhaps -5F to -8F is more likely and only when well established.    None of my plantings are more than 2 years old and I really look forward to having mature groves of this truly spectacular bamboo.