Solved Bamboo identification

I think that growing bamboos is not just a case of "right plant, right place" but "right plant, right place, right maintenance" . The planting is easy but maintenance is more important. Most people who plant them want an instant screen to blot out a view or their neighbours and just leave them to run riot.

If well maintained, bamboos can make an attractive feature in a garden. My shallow, sandy soil and surrounding them with sandstone blocks keeps them confined. I also remove almost two thirds of the canes every year and any runners as soon as they appear. However, they've been controlled here for nearly 12 years and may be planning an underground vengeance .

 

I envy your discipline @Plantminded . When you have put up pictures of your bamboo, they always look far nicer than mine ever have, which suggests better care and the braveness to put them in the ground.

 

I grew Phyllostachys pubescens from seed about 25 yrs ago, it's only just coming up with adult canes.
Mind you it's been a bit neglected and is never watered, just formed a clump.