Bamboo

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76summerwind cape may court house, NJ(Zone 6a) Jan 22, 2003

Just received a gift from a neighbor

Looks like a green stick to me.
I was told to put it in water, Ok...

Now What?

Sandy
P.S. It's pretty big and so green..

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PlanterRik Birmingham, AL(Zone 7b) Jan 22, 2003

It is probably "Lucky Bamboo," which, rather than a bamboo, is Dracaena sanderiana. German sites identify it as D. fragrans stedneri, and one specializing in bamboo gives the following information:

The bamboo that is no bamboo, rather a Yucca relative. Originally from South China. Cuttings are placed in water to root. As the foot develops roots, at the other end leaves the size of mouse ears start to appear. ... Stalks are often presented in different configurations ... sometimes bound in the form of little pagodas ... often sold without care instructions, but never without a description of the plant's magical powers. It brings luck, happiness, health and long life. It can even break you from smoking. After a few weeks the luck seems to run out as the plant turns yellow and starts looking tired. It is our belief that this short-lived plant brings luck and health only to those who sell it. Perhaps that is a bit severe; there certainly are other short-lived plants. And Lucky Bamboo must be ranked in that category. You'll have more luck with real bamboo.

Tips on care: This plant is markedly undemanding. It is placed directly in water, which should be changed weekly. Fertilizing is unnecessary. Direct sun should be avoided; half-shade to shade is optimal. After a week in water D. Sanderiana [now this site is contradicting itself] develops roots. At this point, it can be planted in soil, placed in a hydroponic medium or left in water -- a houseplant for people without a green thumb.

--- I guess I didn't need to translate the whole thing, but there's some basic info, though a little cynical. Once it is established, I don't see why it shouldn't thrive like any other dracaena. I think the bamboo experts are a little biased.

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