Bamboo, a subfamily of typically fast-growing, tall, tree-like grasses, is found in tropical, subtropical and mild temperate regions across almost all continents, except Antarctica and Europe. In prehistoric South, East and Southeast Asia, it is well known for its use in tools, weapons, means of construction, transport and food.
Due to its characteristics of bending without breaking and remaining evergreen, bamboo symbolises resilience, strength and adaptability, as well as prosperity and fertility. The ancient Chinese poetry collection Book of Songs contains numerous references to bamboo symbolising family prosperity.
Europeans’ encounters with the plant and its name during their age of exploration are first attested in the writings of Portuguese doctor, herbalist and naturalist Garcia de Orta, who worked primarily in Goa and Bombay in Portuguese India.
