The Moso bamboo, which mainly grows in China and other parts of Asia, has a very unusual growth pattern. For the first four years, it hardly grows at all. But in the fifth year, it suddenly begins to shoot up—growing more than five centimeters a day—and within just two months, it can reach a height of over fifteen meters. How can it grow so tall in such a short time? The secret lies underground, in its roots.
During those first five years, the Moso bamboo is busy growing long, deep, and strong roots. Thanks to this hidden foundation, it can later achieve its remarkable growth. The five years that seemed like stillness were, in fact, a vital period of preparation for the bamboo to rise high above the ground.