I want to use bamboo for my garden as poles for tomatoes and build trelises, also want to try making things with it.I have seen a variety called running that have two kinds I would like to try to grow if I can use them. One is 'black' another is a kind of 'silver gray'.
Anyone have any info?

All I can tell you is that "running" forms of bamboo (as opposed to "clumping" forms) need SERIOUS containment. As in deeply entrenched metal barriers & consistent attention to make sure even these aren't broached.

So many "running" types of bamboo now rampage across the countryside - in all gardening zones - that in many places they're considered a very serious pest.

Make sure you do some extensive research into what you need to do to grow bamboo responsibly before taking them on.

I have bamboo in my garden, so some cultivars will live in the north.

ANY bamboo needs a perfect barrier to limit its spread. Masonry with a sheet metal and or plastic barrier 36" at a minumum-- do less and you will be digging and chopping it for years after.

"Clumping" bamboo spreads too, disregard any who sez otherwise.

My father has both types. It's very beautiful, but he also has a lot of land to accommodate the height and spread. He does work pretty hard maintaining it. They eat the shoots in stir fries though and that helps! I think he said the black bamboo doesn't turn black until it's an older cane or something like that. Plus, the black doesn't look as dark black as it does in catalogs I've seen.

I wouldn't grow it for garden poles. do you know anyone who grows it - or even have a neighbor? I'm sure they'd be happy to give some up every year!

Bamboo is definitly one of the strongest natural poles i think. The Chinese still use it to make scafolding for the sides of buidlings.

Bamboo is very invasive around here. Consequently, you often see the poles for sale very cheap. I wouldn't consider planting it without making sure it isn't going to take over your world.

This is from someone who bought and planted English Ivy many years ago and is still paying the price