Abstract

Bamboo is a valuable renewable natural resource. It has both household and industrial uses. Of about 1000 bamboo species recorded all over the world, India is endowed with more than 100 species. In order to obtain first-hand knowledge about differentspecies of bamboos, a project was undertaken for collection and establishment of different species of bamboos. So far 20 species of bamboos have been established in the bamboosetum located at Nilambur in Kerala, India. The propagules used were offsets, culm or branch cuttings and seedlings. Hormone treatments were given in cases where induction of rooting was necessary in culm and branch cuttings. Observations on culm production and growth were recorded. A list of species with accession number and a plot chart are also provided. Botanical names, vernacular names, distribution and important uses of each species are appended