musa

( MEW - zuh )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of perennial plants needs full sun to partial shade and ample amounts of water. These are ornamental plants that are fast-growing with thick stems and spread via underground runners. Leaves are beautiful and broad, but can be damaged by winds. These plants are great near swimming pools and 

Musa Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Musa vary, depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Musa acuminata
This plant grows best in zones 8, 9, 14-24, H1 and H2 and is native to Southeast Asia. Varieties are outlined below.
'Enano Gigante'
Reaches 6-8 feet tall and wide, and leaves in dark green, marked with red when young. This plant produces creamy fruit.
'Zebrina'
('Roja', 'Rojo', 'Sumatra' 'Sumatrana')
This variety, known under many names, has green leaves with maroon stripes and produces inedible fruit.
'Siam Ruby'
This variety has dark red leaves and leafstalks marked with yellow.

​Musa basjoo (Japanese Banana)
This species of Musa is best in zones 2-3 (with protection), 4-9, 14-24, H1 and H2 and is native to Japan. This is a hardy type that grows to 15 feet tall. This plant will die to the ground in frosty areas but regrow in the next season if well-mulched.

​Musa lasiocarpa (Musella lasiocarpa) (Chinese Yellow Banana)
This species grows best in zones 5-9, 11-24, H1 and H2 and is native to China. It reaches 5-6 feet tall and has dark green leaves that reach 3-4 feet long. Its inflorescence looks like a large artichoke. The plant will die after the flower expires, but regrow from the roots in the next season.


​Musa x paradisiaca (Musa sapientum)
This species grows best in zones 9, 12-16, 19-24, H1 and H2. It is a commonly grown form and bears flowers with powdery-purple bracts. Fruit is seedy, inedible and sometimes follows the flowers.

Caring for Musa

Musa requires rich soil and frequent fertilizations. 

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 447, Musa
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
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