Facts on Bamboo

Bamboo is used to create a wide variety of everyday objects.

Bamboo has many different uses. Parts of the bamboo plant are edible if consumed within a reasonable amount of time. Bamboo has been present in Chinese culture as far back as 12,000 B.C. during the Neolithic times.

Growing

Over 1,000 different species of bamboo exist around the world. Bamboo is the quickest growing plant on Earth, growing 1 to 4 feet in a 24-hour cycle. Different species grow at different rates. Growing conditions and the climate affect the growth rate.

Usage

Bamboo has been used over the ages to create a wide variety of objects due to its strength and eco-friendly status. Furniture such as beds, chairs, desks and lamps have all been constructed out of bamboo. A school in Bali has also been constructed out of bamboo.

Location

The majority of all bamboo plants in the world---64 percent---are native to Southeast Asia. Only three species are native to North America. Latin America is home to 440 different species of bamboo.

References

• Network Earth: Bamboo Architecture And Construction With Oscar Hidalgo
• Lewis Bamboo: Interesting Bamboo Facts
• JM Bamboo: Using Bamboo
• Asian Bamboo: Bamboo In Chinese Culture
• SE Forum: Green School Bali: An Ode To Bamboo The World's Future

Resources

• The Fun Times Guide: 6 Fun DIY Projects Using Bamboo