Bamboo: The largest member of the grass family, one of the fastest growing plants on earth, a staple for some animals, and, in the form of shoots also for humans. As a natural composite material it is used in construction; weapons, houses and even bicycles are being made from it. One of the most versatile natural products that can grow in tropical, subtropical, and even in moderate to cold climate zones. Some species survive winters with lows down to -29º C. On top of it all it is quite easy to handle, everything from production to recycling is a natural process. Why then, is it not cultivated on a bigger scale? I don´t mean gigantic destructive monoculture farms, not the grave mistakes that have been done with the oil palm, canola or vast pastures for beef cattle. But in certain areas up to a certain extent, it could prove quite useful. Well, I´m not a biologist or a botanist, maybe there are good reasons not to spread bamboo around too much. Nevertheless I find it to be a beautiful plant. As a forest it radiates calm, it offers shade and coolness in tropical heat, it serves as a noise and visual barrier. It can be a haven, an oasis, or just a place of retreat for a while. A place for contemplation, very peaceful and soothing with the wind gently swaying the stalks.

There was a particularly nice and big bamboo forest with a small creek running through it,

along the Cape Coast to Kakum Road.

Climbing poles, jumping poles.

A former picnic place, or a small manufacturing area?

Getting away from it all.

From shoots to roots.

See more Bamboo pics in the gallery