The correct scientific name is the basis of plant research and academic exchange. Solving the confusion between Phyllostachys edulis 'Yuanbao' and Phyllostachys edulis f. tubaeformis is conducive to bamboo academic research and exchange. The authors clarified the differences betweenPhyllostachys edulis 'Yuanbao' and Phyllostachys edulisf.tubaeformis based on morphological characteristics,introduction history and type specimen verification,and corrected the mistake that Phyllostachys edulis'Yuanbao' had long been regarded as Phyllostachys edulis f. tubaeformis. Phyllostachys edulis'Yuanbao' has oblate culms,sunken internodes and wavy nodes,and the internodes show typical 'Yuanbao' shape from the branch side. The plants are short and compact with dense branches and leaves. Through years of observation and comparison,its distinctive traits are uniform and stable. In conclusion,Phyllostachys edulis'Yuanbao' is a bamboo cultivar with high ornamental values,and it has broad application prospects in gardening and landscaping.