Alphonse Karr bamboo (cv Bambusa multiplex) 'Yellow Stem or Hedge Bamboo'. Alphonse Karr bamboo is an attractive bamboo for hedging purposes, its close growing habit makes it a great privacy screen. Being a nice looking bamboo Alphonse Karr bamboo is also suited as a specimen bamboo and can be grown in large pots or containers. Alphonse Karr bamboo growth ratewill depend on conditions, however in good conditions it can reach 3m in one year.