A Beautiful and Historic Resource – The Origins of Amazing Bamboo
First used in China over 5,000 years ago, there are hundreds of innovative uses of bamboo. For thousands of years, it was used for practical products like bows, arrows, paper, and bedding. Writing tablets, building materials, and books have been produced from bamboo as well.
There is also a rich historical tradition of using bamboo for decorative purposes: floor and wall coverings; functional art and furniture.
Today it is a popular building material worldwide.
Bamboo is not just for the tropics
Just because you may associate bamboo with the tropics doesn’t mean it can only be grown in tropical climates. In fact, there are varieties of bamboo that flourish in a multitude of environments. Thus, its geographical diversity encourages an enormous range of uses for this woody grass.
Not only does bamboo grow in many climates, but it is also a durable exterior design material across the globe. Solid bamboo poles have thick walls that are so strong they stand up to the elements. These bamboo poles are ideal for outdoor settings, no matter your home’s climate.
The origins of Bamboo
The species of bamboo that we know today evolved from prehistoric grasses between thirty and forty million years ago.
It eventually became a food source for animals, and even humans. Bamboo shoots are still used in Chinese and other eastern cuisines.
Scientific Bamboo research began in 1920. In the 80’s and 90’s, it was recognized as a sustainable alternative to other construction timbers. This was due to its strength and quick re-growth timeframe.
The fact that bamboo is a grass is relevant to its sustainability. Through history, wood has become scarce. This is because it can take 60 years to produce a full grown tree, and then another sixty years for a replacement. And there are more humans harvesting trees than ever before.
Certain species of bamboo, equal to the height and width of a tree, take as little as sixty days to reach maturity.
Increased environmental awareness has alerted us to the problem of deforestation. When forests are cut down little is left behind to clean the air, shelter animals, and prevent soil erosion. As a grass, bamboo regrows so quickly that these problems are significantly mitigated.
More Benefits of Bamboo
- The Bamboo species, Tre-Gai and Solid Bamboo, are versatile and sturdy.
- Since amaZulu’s bamboo products are pressure treated they are also long-lasting.
- If desired, fire retardant can be added at the time of pressure treating for extra safety.
- It creates an authentic atmosphere for your installations.
- Natural coloring also adds to that authenticity.
Are you ready to use bamboo?
If you’re interested in using bamboo, we would love to help you!
Contact us today for more information on our Bamboo products or give us a call, toll-free at 877-243-5309.
Related content and products:
Construction Grade Bamboo
Product Spotlight: Bamboo Poles
The Bamboo Homes of Bali
Why does it benefit the environment?
amaZulu, Inc. has hand selected manufacturers who produce eco-friendly, high quality natural architectural materials. Our selection presents a dynamic list of options when considering the environment.
At amaZulu, Inc., we extend our legacy beyond business to the community when we partner with domestic and international organizations that create economic opportunities to reduce poverty. We help improve the lives of the people who grow and produce our products.
