The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center’s “What Is True?” team investigated online comments about bamboo plants taking over Southeast Mississippi yards. 

RESULTS: The claims are true. 

In parts of the United States, bamboo planting is heavily regulated by local ordinances and state laws because of its rapid growth and sometimes uncontrollable spread. However, there are ways to keep the plant in check. Read the full fact check below to learn more. 

An article by Networx said the main reason bamboo is not ideal for your yard is that it spreads quickly. Bamboo can grow especially fast when it is near irrigated yards or places that hold a lot of water. When it becomes overgrown, bamboo can affect the area’s biodiversity and push out native plants. 

Some varieties of bamboo can even be considered noxious weeds, meaning people could legally force their neighbors to remove them. Unfortunately, as the Networx article states, the plant is very difficult to remove because of its large root system. 

According to FastGrowingTrees, some types of bamboo clump rather than spread. Horticulturists said clumping bamboo will not take over your property. Varieties of clumping bamboo include Seabreeze bamboo, Graceful bamboo and Giant Timber bamboo. 

Despite the plant’s challenges, there are still benefits to planting bamboo. An article by Lochtree states bamboo produces 35% more oxygen than the average tree. It can also absorb a high amount of carbon dioxide. 

About “What Is True?” 

The RHCJC “What Is True?” team of graduate investigators examines everything from viral online posts to local community rumors. If you have a question, submit it to the “What Is True?” inquiry form on the RHCJC website or call 855-IS-IT-TRU (855-474-8878).