At Totten Creek Farm, we grow seven varieties of edible bamboo. We chose bamboo for several reasons: it is versatile, eco-friendly, and delicious!
Some think bamboo needs a warm or tropical climate to thrive. This is a misconception- several varieties of bamboo are very cold hardy and thrive in any climate, including in Southern Oregon. Not only that, but bamboo improves the environment it is in. Bamboo produces as much as 30% more oxygen than other plant species. It also takes little from the soil, leaving plenty of nutrients for other plants to grow.
Our bamboo will be available as pickled shoots as well as fresh for select regional restaurants.
Varieties
Sweet Shoot
Sweet Shoot
Sweet Shoot bamboo (Phyllostachys Dulcis) is a type of running (spreading) bamboo admired for its delicious shoots. It is one of the quickest growing bamboos and typically produces crops early. Sweet Shoot bamboo is a shorter plant with thick culms.
Incense
Incense
Incense bamboo (Phyllostachys atrovaginata) is a running bamboo that is fast growing and cold-hardy. This bamboo gets its name from the fragrant scent it produces during warm weather or when rubbed.
Parvifolia
Parvifolia
Parvifolia bamboo (Phyllostachys parvifolia) is a thick, hardy bamboo that can grow up to 40ft in height. This species produces blue, purple tinged shoots. Parvifolia bamboo is a newer species in the U.S., and as such is rare.
Moso
Moso
Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), also known as tortoise-shell bamboo, is a species of giant timber bamboo. A running (spreading) bamboo, Moso can reach heights of up to 92ft under correct conditions.
Kimmei Vivax
Kimmei Vivax
Kimmei Vivax bamboo (Phyllostachys vivax) is a clumping (non-spreading) bamboo known for its tasty shoots and cold hardiness. This variety grows beautiful contrasting bright yellow culms and dark green leaves.
Chinese Walking Stick
Chinese Walking Stick
Chinese Walking Stick bamboo (Chimonobambusa tumidissinoda) is a rare, unique running bamboo known for its stunning appearance. This species gets its name from its popular use as canes and walking sticks.
Clumping
Clumping
clump