Author David Farrelly called it the “wonder lumber” in his book about it. Strong, lightweight and bark-less, this plentiful plant has been used since ancient times to build everything from houses to bridges.
The styles vary, but homebuilders in many countries use it to build walls, roofs, stairs, molding, gutters, pipes and fences.
Manufacturers use it to make paper, boats, bicycles, musical instruments and window blinds, not to mention beer and even aphrodisiacs. Thomas Edison used it to make the filaments in his first light bulbs.
Now, the home building industry is “discovering” this plant, primarily for flooring. It resembles hardwood but has a more intricate pattern.
Environmentalists praise this plant because it regenerates without planting; no forests are depleted. Some say it is the fastest-growing plant. According to Farrelly, it can grow as fast as 47.6 inches a day.
Although many consider it a type of tree, it is actually a grass. Depending on the variety, it grows from one to 100 feet tall. What is it?
Answer: Bamboo
