AppearancePhyllostachys aurea is a perennial, reed-like plant that can reach heights of 16-40 ft. (5-12 m). The canes (stems) are hollow with solid joints and can be 1-6 in. (2.5-15.2 cm) in diameter.Foliage Leaves are alternate, 3-10 in. (7.6-25.4 cm) long and 0.25-0.75 in. (0.6-1.9 cm) wide. Flowers Flowering is very rare (maybe once every 7 to 12 years).Fruit Plants spread by rhizomes.Ecological Threat Infestations are commonly found around old homesites and can rapidly expand in size. Phyllostachys aurea can form dense, monocultural thickets that displace native species. Once this plant is established, it is difficult to remove. It is native to China and was first introduced into the United States in 1882 for ornamental purposes.