Acidosasa

Acidosasa is a genus of bamboo in the grass family (Poaceae). It is native to China and Vietnam.

Description: Acidosasa bamboos are characterized by their acidic tasting shoots, a feature which gives the genus its name (acido- referring to acid, and -sasa being a common suffix for bamboo genera). They are typically small to medium-sized bamboos, often with a running (leptomorph) rhizome system, allowing them to spread vegetatively. The culms (stems) are generally slender and the leaves are relatively small.

Distribution and Habitat: The genus is primarily found in subtropical and temperate regions of China and Vietnam. They typically grow in forests and along stream banks, often in acidic soils.

Taxonomy: Acidosasa belongs to the Bambuseae tribe within the Poaceae family. The classification of specific species within the genus has been subject to revision over time.

Uses: While not as widely used as some other bamboo genera, Acidosasa species have some local uses. The culms are sometimes used for crafts and construction, and the young shoots, despite their acidic taste, are occasionally consumed after processing. They are also cultivated as ornamental plants.

Selected Species:

• Acidosasa chinensis
• Acidosasa edulis
• Acidosasa gigantea
• Acidosasa purpurea