Clumping bamboos such as these can work that close to a wall of the house if you are willing to prune out culms/trunks at the ground level as you require. The roots won't necessarily be an issue for the foundation, and you can create space for maintenance/painting access by pruning as you want. I've seen both planted as closely as you suggest here in local Berkeley gardens without problems for the house. It is more a matter of aesthetics IMO, and how much pruning to thin the bamboo occasionally you want to or are prepared to do. I typically limb up trunks by removing lower side branches and cut out a third of the trunks to give a more open look which also serves to better show off the trunks.and their contrasting color. I find most all of my clients prefer this look for their bamboos, compared to a dense mass of trunks and foliage to the ground. Also, remember that all bamboos constantly drop leaves, so they aren't a good choice for those who are fastidious about having spotless ground. I like both these bamboos and use them a lot for vertical effects against walls or light screens for privacy or a vertical accent in lieu of larger growing trees, but find they take at least twice a year pruning to keep the look I like.

ok, i finally took a picture and uploaded it here: http://photos.gardenweb.com/garden/galleries/2010/09/can_i_plant_an_avocado_tree_he.html this is where i want to plant the Lamb Hass, in the far right corner of this terraced section behind my house. I would remove the dwarf lime tree that is there and plant the Lamb Hass so it would be 12 feet from the house but only 2 1/2-3 feet from the walls of the terrace. the back wall is very sturdy, the other two are less sturdy. Is this ok to plant here? If not, what about a semi-dwarf citrus or asian guava? thanks, ari ps: is there an easier way of adding an image? i find i have to post it elsewhere than link to it, which is very clunky considering the internet today. Here is a link that might be useful: picture of planting area

Wow, zone 7 and no greenhouse? You are in a bit of a pickle. I would recommend getting 30 gallon pots or bigger and putting them in those along the wall. Burlap and Christmas tree lights should help keep them warm, but... If worse comes to worse, you can drag your pots into a garage, or something. Best of luck on your citrus project! Tyler

I was curious, as I brought one back from Fla. years ago. Here in San Antonio, it just did not grow, it just sat there. 20 years later it still has not grown but a few inches. I always suspected there was a piece of stone or deadpan under it. Unless hollies do exceptionally well in your area, I would go with 12 to 15 ft. from the foundation. They are lovely. Enjoy! Here is a link that might be useful: Savannah Holly