Photograph by Eileen Roche, courtesy of ROCHE + ROCHE Landscape Architecture

Bamboo can impart any space with an air of relaxation and shade--there's a reason why gardens that incorporate it feel so serene. However, there are a few pitfalls to be aware of before planting your first hedge-line. Read on for 10 facts about gardening with bamboo.

Photo by Eileen Roche

1. Bamboo can be a clumper or a runner.

Photo by Marcus Harpur

While bamboo is famous for 'running' unrestrained, it can also clump up.

2. Bamboo is a grass, not a tree.

Photo courtesy of Vickie Cardaro

3. Bamboo grows lightning fast.

Photo by Sean Kernan

4. Bamboo is Superman-strong.

Photo courtesy of Commune by the Great Wall

Bamboo's tensile strength is even stronger than steel.

5. Bamboo helps Mother Earth.

Photo by Alessio Mei, from Gardens of Marrakesh

Believe it or not, bamboo produces 35% more oxygen than trees.

6. Bamboo is not a fire risk if well-maintained.

Photo courtesy of Bertrams Guldsmeden

Green, living bamboo does not pose a serious fire risk.

7. Bamboo cleans up.

Photo by Daniel J. Layton via Wikimedia

Bamboo is extremely good at removing metals and other toxic substances from water.

8. Bamboo is food.

Photo by Scott Edmunds via Flickr

9. Bamboo can be cold-hardy.

Certain bamboo varieties can tolerate freezing winter temperatures.

Photo by Sean Kernan

10. Bamboo is versatile.

Photo by Matthew Williams 

With over 1,500 species to choose from, bamboo can fit into almost all garden styles.