Moso Bamboo
Phyllostachys edulis · Bamboo
- Type
- Bamboo
- Origin
- Native to China and subtropical regions of East Asia, widely cultivated globally
- Hardness
- 1380 lbf, Hard (carbonated variants can be slightly lower, around 1000-1100 lbf)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, susceptible to termite and powder-post beetle attack if untreated, moderate resistance to fungal decay
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Grain Pattern
Straight, vertical linear grain pattern with characteristic horizontal node rings visible on the surface
Color & Appearance
Pale yellow to light golden brown with subtle natural tonal variations, low natural luster, darkening slightly to a deeper amber with UV exposure and age
Hardness (Janka)
1380 lbf, Hard (carbonated variants can be slightly lower, around 1000-1100 lbf)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, susceptible to termite and powder-post beetle attack if untreated, moderate resistance to fungal decay
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- USD 3.00 to 6.00 per board foot equivalent for laminated bamboo panels
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a modern manufactured sample less than 5 to 10 years old, typical of a consumer cutting board
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable and renewable, fast-growing grass reaching maturity in 3-5 years, not CITES listed, widely available with FSC options
Common Uses
Cutting boards, flooring, cabinetry, small furniture, decorative items, utensils, and engineered laminates
Geographic Origin
Native to China and subtropical regions of East Asia, widely cultivated globally
Workability
Challenging due to high silica content which rapidly dulls cutting tools; glues well with PVA or epoxy, sands smoothly, but can splinter easily along the vertical grain
Finish Recommendations
Food-safe mineral oil, beeswax, or polyurethane; requires sanding with fine grits and careful preparation as the dense silica content can resist liquid penetration
Notable Features
Not a true wood but a fast-growing monocot grass; exceptionally high tensile strength, highly renewable, possesses distinctive visible node rings
