UPM SPECIALIST WRITING ARTICLES

GOLDEN BAMBOO IN A LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Amizatul Najeha Lukmanulhakim, Pegawai Perkhidmatan Pendidikan, Unit Pertanian, Pusat Asasi Sains Universiti Putra Malaysia.

 

The use of golden bamboo as a landscape element is increasingly recognized as an approach that not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also aligns well with contemporary design philosophies—particularly among landscape architects in Southeast Asia who favour tropical and zen-inspired concepts.

This plant, well known for its slender, elegant stems and the soft rustling of its leaves in the wind, contributes to a calming and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for gardens and outdoor spaces that emphasize harmony with nature.

One of the key advantages of golden bamboo is its adaptability to hot and humid climates, which makes it particularly suitable for tropical regions like Malaysia. Its resilience to weather fluctuations and low maintenance requirements further increase its practicality and appeal in sustainable landscape design.

Picture 1. Phyllostachys aurea, image by Chuck Bargeron, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org licence under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

 

Botanically known as Phyllostachys aurea, golden bamboo possesses slender canes and fine, graceful foliage that lend a refined and tranquil aesthetic to both residential gardens and public landscapes. The gentle rustling sound produced by its leaves when swayed by the breeze adds a therapeutic, sensory dimension, enhancing the overall experience of the space.

In addition to its visual and auditory qualities, golden bamboo is also effective as a natural screen or living fence, thanks to its upright growth habit and ability to form dense clusters. This makes it a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional fencing materials, offering both privacy and beauty without compromising environmental integrity.

Nevertheless, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind before incorporating golden bamboo into a landscape design—especially in residential settings. Like many bamboo species, golden bamboo propagates through underground rhizomes, which can cause the plant to spread uncontrollably if not properly managed. To prevent this, it is strongly recommended to install root barriers during planting to contain its growth and avoid invasive behaviours.

Picture 2. Phyllostachys aurea, image by James R. Allison, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Bugwood.org licence under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

 

Furthermore, spacing is a critical factor. Planting bamboo too closely can lead to overcrowding, which may disrupt the balance of the overall design and compete with nearby plantings. Selecting the right variety is equally important—not all bamboo species are ideal for landscaping purposes. It is best to choose a moderate-sized, manageable cultivar that complements the space without becoming overly aggressive.

To conclude, when designing a landscape, especially in a residential setting, it is essential to choose bamboo varieties that not only suit your aesthetic preferences but also align with practical maintenance needs. Golden bamboo offers a unique blend of beauty, tranquillity, and functionality, making it a valuable addition to thoughtfully designed outdoor environments.

Date: May 7, 2025

Reference:

Suzuki, S., & Nakagoshi, N. (2011). Sustainable management of Satoyama bamboo landscapes in Japan. Landscape ecology in Asian cultures, 211-220.

Buziquia, S. T., Lopes, P. V. F., Almeida, A. K., & de Almeida, I. K. (2019). Impacts of bamboo spreading: a review. Biodiversity and conservation, 28, 3695-3711.    

 

Date of Input: 16/05/2025 | Updated: 16/05/2025 | hasniah