Phyllostachys aurea (common names: Hotei chiku)

Beautiful bamboo. Wonderful noise too when the wind rustles it. The aurea against the niger would be a lovely combination

There's a Teucrium fruticans (do you know it?) next to the Bamboo - there's a bit showing in the photo. I think that will have to go. That will give me room.

Teucrium is germander isn't it? I've heard they are difficult plants to deal with so sounds like a good swap to me

They are quite attractive with silver evergreen leaves and pale blue flowers. There were three of them when we moved in. one died, two left. I've heard that they are on the tender side.but hey, this is the SW! I could dig it up and give it away I suppose. Seems a shame to waste it.

Those Hellebores look great! Hope mine will grow as big? :D

no that isnt normal.ive found bamboo to be one of the toughest plants i have.sounds like its bean poisand to me.i had to get rid of some bamboo and it took 2 years to kill it.i used loads of salt.coverd it away from the sun.didnt water it and hacked it right down.i ended up putting a sculpture over it.something very wrong im afraid