A rhizome is just a chunk of root, and you can grow a bamboo from this, as long as it has been kept moist and has adequate growth buds on it. Based on my experience growing bamboo from rhizome, the success of propagation is about 0-50%, depending on species and the health of the particular rhizome. If you succeed, you might see some growth in 3 weeks to 3 months. Don't expect a huge plant any time in the near future, though: it will probably take 5 years before it is head height. So, if you want a bigger plant sooner, buying a potted plant, rather than just a piece of rhizome, is the way to go.

Have you thought of growing some bamboo outdoors? There are a few bamboo growers in Wisconsin and certain varieties do quite well if planted in the right place and with the proper care.

Kt

Actually, I really didn't consider it. This would be my first try. All my garden areas are full blazing sun so I thought a pot on the porch would be awesome. I suppose seeds would take forever too, cost is kind of a factor that had me looking at the rhizomes.
Mike

Seeds are an even slower way to grow bamboo than from rhizomes...and they are not readily available. Bamboo species set seed only rarely (think once every 20-100 years), so it's not like going to the store to get tomato seeds. There are usually a few species available at any time as seeds, but they might not be what you want or what will grow in your area. In addition, they lose viability quickly -- like in a few months -- so you want to know you have seeds from a fresh source. Finally, most of the bamboo seeds available on eBay are from sellers outside the U.S. and it's illegal to import them without a quarantine period and a special permit.