Clumping vs. Running Bamboo: Understanding the Key Differences

Clumping vs. Running Bamboo

Bamboo has gained global attention for its rapid growth, sustainability, and versatility. However, confusion persists around the term “invasive,” largely due to misunderstandings between two very different types of bamboo: clumping and running. This post breaks down the key differences and explains why Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris is a safe, non-invasive bamboo variety, perfectly suited for sustainable farming within Jamaica’s climate and development goals.

Two Types of Bamboo: Two Very Different Behaviours

There are over 1,600 known bamboo species worldwide, occupying a wide range of environments, but they generally fall into two growth categories:

Running Bamboo

• Spreads aggressively through underground rhizomes (horizontal stems).

• Can travel many feet away from the main clump, even popping up in neighbouring fields.

• Known to take over gardens, landscapes, and ecosystems if not controlled.

• Common in temperate zones like North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.

Clumping Bamboo

• Grows in compact, self-contained clumps.

• Rhizomes grow vertically and stay close to the parent plant.

• Ideal for tropical climates, including Jamaica.

💭 Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris is a clumping species — not a runner — and officially recognised as a commercial crop in Jamaica.

Why the Confusion?

Many refer to "bamboo" as a single invasive entity. Unfortunately, this generalisation has led to misinformation, especially about tropical, clumping species. A search for "is bamboo invasive?" often returns warnings based on experiences with running species in North America — not the Bambusa vulgaris grown in the Caribbean.

This is why species-specific education is critical.

Official Classification of Bambusa vulgaris in Jamaica

Beyond being a safe, clumping species, Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris holds official recognition as a commercial crop in Jamaica. This significant status is underpinned by several factors, cementing its role in the nation’s green economic future:

• Jamaica’s commitment to bamboo industry development, notably since becoming the 38th member of the International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR) in 2012. This strategic move marks a shift from traditional, informal uses to a focus on producing robust, high-quality commercial bamboo products.

• NEPA permits its cultivation as a commercial crop, and initiatives like Bamboo Bioproducts are leading this charge. Its cultivation is viewed as a viable, sustainable solution for lands previously under sugar cane but now sitting idle, with the potential to generate substantial revenue and employment for local communities.

• Bamboo Bioproducts farms only Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris, a clumping species, on degraded and idle lands — ensuring no ecological threat while maximizing land utility.
  

Benefits of Clumping Bamboo

• Excellent for carbon capture and erosion control

• Enhances biodiversity by creating shaded microclimates and restoring degraded soils

• Suitable for sustainable farming

• A renewable resource for tissue and hygiene products, as well as other bioproducts.

  
  

Real-World Example: Bamboo Bioproducts’ Jamaica Project

A walkthrough of Bamboo Biofarms’ bamboo test plots in Friendship, Westmoreland, Jamaica. These Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris plots are now over three years old, demonstrating healthy clumping growth and suitability for commercial cultivation.

BBP’s commercial operations use only clumping bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris var. vulgaris) on land sitting idle or degraded. There’s been:

• No evidence of spreading beyond planted zones

• No reports of displacement of native species

• Strong local and governmental support for continued expansion

  
  

Final Thoughts: Don’t Generalise Bamboo

In the world of sustainability, bamboo is a powerful ally — but only if it’s grown responsibly. That’s why it’s so important to distinguish between:

• Running bamboo: Risky in many environments, especially temperate zones.

• Clumping bamboo (like Bambusa vulgaris): Safe, sustainable, and appropriate for commercial cultivation in Jamaica.

  
  

Let’s replace fear with facts.

FAQ

What is the main difference between clumping and running bamboo?Clumping bamboo grows in tight clusters; running bamboo spreads through underground rhizomes.

Is Bambusa vulgaris a running bamboo?

No, it is a clumping species and inherently non-invasive under normal cultivation, as its rhizomes do not spread widely.

Can clumping bamboo become invasive?

No, not under normal cultivation.

Is bamboo safe for the environment in Jamaica?

Yes. Bambusa vulgaris has been approved by NEPA as a commercial crop and enhances the environment when grown responsibly.