How to distinguish between Guanyin bamboo and Fu Gui bamboo: A comprehensive guide to the easily confused points in home care

Differences between Guanyin Bamboo and Fugui Bamboo

Many green plant enthusiasts often confuse Guanyin Bamboo with Fugui Bamboo when selecting indoor ornamental bamboos. Although both plants belong to the Agave family, they have significant differences in morphological characteristics and maintenance requirements. Mastering the correct identification method can not only enhance the effect of home landscaping but also allow for targeted scientific care.

Comparison of Morphological Characteristics

Difference in Plant Height

In its natural state, mature Guanyin Bamboo can reach a height of 4-7 meters, with a straight and upright stem like a green bamboo. When maintained at home, it can be controlled to about 1.5-2 meters tall, but still maintains a distinct main stem advantage.

Fugui Bamboo naturally reaches only 2-3 meters in height, and is often maintained at 30-80 centimeters when hydroponically grown. Its growing tip tends to bend, forming a unique spiral shape.

Characteristics of Stem Structure

Guanyin Bamboo has a robust stem with a bamboo-like appearance, with internodes of only 1-2 centimeters, and branches usually sprout from the base. The mature stem's epidermis gradually becomes lignified, presenting a light brown texture.

Differences between Guanyin Bamboo and Fugui Bamboo

Fugui Bamboo has a slender and flexible stem, with internodes that can reach 3-5 centimeters, and rarely produces lateral branches. In a hydroponic environment, the stem maintains a green color, while in a soil-based environment, it gradually forms a light brown cuticle layer.

Difference in Leaf Shape

Guanyin Bamboo has wide and thick leaves that are ovate in shape, with a leaf length of 15-20 centimeters and a short and thick petiole. The leaves are arranged in a whorled pattern, with 5-7 leaves per round, and紧凑 spacing to form an umbrella-like canopy.

Fugui Bamboo has long and narrow leaves like a sword, reaching 13-23 centimeters, with a long and thin petiole. The leaves are arranged opposite each other with a larger spacing, presenting an overall elegant streamlined posture.

Misunderstandings in Home Maintenance

Most people mistakenly maintain both plants in the same way, but in fact, they need to be treated differently: Guanyin Bamboo requires slightly moist soil and a balanced nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer every month; Fugui Bamboo should be regularly cleaned in a hydroponic environment to prevent leaf tip browning caused by direct sunlight.

After correctly identifying the two plants, they can be chosen based on spatial needs — Guanyin Bamboo is suitable as a main landscape plant in the living room for vertical greening, while Fugui Bamboo is more suitable for placement on a desk in a study. Regularly rotating the pot direction can ensure uniform light exposure, preventing biased growth.