Banana Bush or Banana Shrub is a large growing flowering perennial that is native to China. It is a member of the Magnolia family, and was introduced into the United States in the 1700s. The common name Banana Shrub is so called because the buttery yellow to cream flowers, reminiscent of magnolia blossoms, that appear in the spring have a distinctive, sweet smell very similar to ripe bananas. The relationship to bananas is just a similar smell. It does not produce any edible fruit.
The blossoms begin to emerge from long, cigar-shaped buds in mid to late Spring, and are made up of 6 waxy, cream to buttery yellow petals with pretty ruby red to purple margins. The shrub grows large, but does so slowly, maturing into a well-branched evergreen bush with deep green, glossy, slightly elongated leaves.
The growth habit is large, branching, and rounded, and will reach heights of as much as 15 feet, but can easily be maintained at lower heights in a hedge form.
Care: When mature, plant in fertile, well-draining soil or potting media in full sun to very light shade. Water as needed to maintain consistent soil moisture, but avoid overwatering. Feed a good quality, slow-release, bloom-boosting fertilizer with the initial planting and annually in spring thereafter. Prune after flowering to control size and shape.
Indoor Growing: As a slow, moderately cold-hardy plant, the Banana Shrub can be grown indoors for a time. However, it requires the full spectrum of light for 4 to 6 hours daily and a period of winter chilling during dormancy to produce flowers.
Climate: Recommended for Temperate to Tropical Climates. USDA Zones 7, 8, 9,10
Condition: This product is one (1) young, starter-sized plant intended for a gardener to grow to its mature size. You may expect a starter-size plant to be well-rooted, have a root zone of approximately 4 inches in diameter, be a minimum of about 6 to 8 inches tall, and have no blooms or buds on arrival. It may be shipped with or without a pot, as appropriate.
Plants are guaranteed to arrive in healthy, viable condition. This warranty is contingent upon the Seller receiving prompt notification of any issues or concerns with the plant\'s condition or appearance.
This notification must be received within 24 hours of delivery and include in-focus photos that clearly show the plant issue, shipping box, and address label. No other additional, extended, or long-term warranty is expressed or implied.
- Brand: Emerald Goddess Gardens
- Common Name: Banana Bush or Shrub
- Bloom Form: Open cupped magnolia like single
- Mature Size: 12 to 15 feet
- Fragrance: Yes
- Suggested Uses: Hedge, Boundary, Specimen, Brackets, Mixed Perennials
- House Plant Adapative: Yes, but may require supplemental lighting to flower
- Country of Origin: USA
- Limited Conditional Warranty: Healthy Arrival
- Extended Long Term Warranty: None
- Manufacturer:Emerald Goddess Gardens TM
- Climate: Temperate
- Color: Yellow to cream w red
- Special Features: Showy flowers, unusual fragrance
- Species: Michelia figo
- Sunlight: Full sun to light shade
- USDA Hardiness Zone: 7, 8, 9,10
- Watering: Moderate