Bamboo isnt called the magic plant for nothing. It can become a highly addictive hobby, and once you see how fast this plant grows you too will become addicted. It is nothing short of amazing. There are so many uses for this plant that there are still items that havent even been thought of yet. Bamboo has more uses than any other plant on earth. The average person comes into contact with something made of bamboo about 20 times a day and doesnt even know it. From cutting boards to clothing, flooring to tooth pics, key chains to chopsticks. There are an endless number of uses for this plant, so much so that the list goes on and on. Only americans can be too stubborn to realize the potential of this plant. Everyone is scared to death that it will take over their yard. Which can happen if not properly maintained. But the maintenance can be as easy as mowing the lawn around the bamboo. Most bamboo enthusiasts warn that you need a barrier to keep it in check. Although this maybe the best method for containment it is alot of hard work putting in the barrier. While chopping the rhizomes 1 time a year will give you the same effect. Now in some cases I do recommend the barrier. Example; next to a pond or pool with a soft liner, because the rhizomes and shoots will puncture these. But in an open area if you can mow around it about 25-30 ft you will have no problems. I use no barriers and I have 17 different species. So dont be afraid of this plant and get your grove started today.