What is the scientific name for a banana tree?
The banana shrub is native to China and has dense, multi-stemmed growth and a moderate height that make it suitable for understory planting and for privacy hedges. While many still use Michelia figo as the scientific name for this shrub, it has been placed by some botanists with the magnolias and had its name changed to Magnolia figo.
Why did the taxonomic name of the banana tree change to Magnolia?
This great similarity of the banana shrub flowers to those of magnolias is the reason for the recent taxonomic change to Magnolia figo. Banana shrubs were introduced into the US from Southeastern China in 1789.
How to grow a banana shrub?
Planting A Banana Shrub: How To Grow Banana Shrubs. Banana shrub is a tropical to subtropical elegant tree to bush. The scientific designation is Michelia figo, and the plant is hardy in the warmer USDA plant hardiness zones 7 to 10. Michelia banana shrubs are more properly trees that can grow 6 to 15 feet in height.
Why is it called a banana shrub?
The fragrance of its flowers resembling the scent of bananas led to its common name, banana shrub. Be aware that NO part of the plant is edible. Slow growing to 6 to 10 ft. tall and wide. Its scent rivals the highly fragrant Plumeria used in Hawaiian leis. What this shrub lacks in bright color it fully compensates for in heady fragrance.
.jpg)
Where do banana shrubs grow?
Banana shrubs grow well from USDA zones 7b to 9 (10), which covers all of SC, except for the mountains in the Upstate. Water the shrubs regularly after planting, but once they are established, they are drought tolerant plants. They can be good choice for the coastal regions, as they are slightly salt tolerant.
Do banana shrubs grow bananas?
0:347:25How to grow Banana Shrub (Michelia figo) with a detailed descriptionYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSpace along a foundation. You definitely wouldn't want this in the West. Or the north wind in theMoreSpace along a foundation. You definitely wouldn't want this in the West. Or the north wind in the winter time. The banana shrubs can be kind of slow to start growing when they're initially planted.
Can banana shrub grow in pots?
The banana shrub grows in a container or in the landscape in sun or partial shade. It needs minimal care with routine water and light. It is a tough, nondescript plant until it noticeably blooms small magnolia-like flowers with an elusive, banana fragrance.
What tree smells like bananas?
Banana shrub received its common name because its flowers smell like ripe bananas. It blooms heavily in the spring with cream-colored, one-inch flowers that look like tiny magnolia blossoms edged with crimson. Blooming will continue sporadically throughout the summer.
Is banana a tree or shrub?
Banana plants are not trees. They are, in fact, large herbs, as they do not have a persistent or woody stem. Although a banana plant has no wooden trunk, it can reach heights of as much as 40 feet, though, making it one of the tallest herbs grown on Earth. Q.
What shrub smells like banana?
Michelia figoBanana shrub is known scientifically as Michelia figo and is a member of the magnolia family. Gardeners can think of it as a miniature Southern magnolia whose flowers smell like bananas.
Is banana shrub edible?
Banana shrub does not produce bananas at all and is not edible. It is a member of the Magnolia family, Magnoliaceae. This traditional creole plant is a southern favorite introduced to the US around 1700. The small fragrant flowers look like mini magnolia flowers.
Why is my banana shrub dying?
Some root rot conditions may arise where the soil is too rich and moist. Young plants should be trained to one leader for the best overall effect on mature specimens. New banana shrub care should start with effective pruning of extra stems and suckers at the base of the plant.
How long do banana trees live?
Banana trees live for about six years, but each stem only lives long enough to produce fruit. After picking the fruit, the stem will die and a new one will grow from the rhizome to give you your next round of bananas.
Is banana shrub toxic to dogs?
Live Musa Super Dwarf Cavendish Banana Starter Plant If you're looking for something oversized to make a statement, check out the banana tree (Musa). It's a pet-safe option that makes a great stand in for large house plants like the weeping fig, which is unfortunately toxic to cats and dogs.
What flower looks like a banana?
Heliconia. Sometimes called parrot's beaks or lobster claws depending on the shape of the flower produced, any number of plants in the genus Heliconia may be confused with a banana. Large species of heliconia produce the larger paddlelike leaves reminiscent of a banana.
Which trees smell the best?
6 Incredibly Fragrant Trees and ShrubsNight Blooming Jasmine. This is woody evergreen shrub is not known for its beauty, but it's amazing fragrance. ... Miami Supreme Gardenia. ... Sweet Almond. ... Winter Daphne. ... Banana Shrub. ... Royal Empress Trees.
What plant do bananas grow on?
Banana plants look like trees but are actually giant herbs related to lilies and orchids. The plant grows from a root clump (rhizome), similar to a tulip bulb. There are over 500 types of bananas!
Is banana shrub edible?
Banana shrub does not produce bananas at all and is not edible. It is a member of the Magnolia family, Magnoliaceae. This traditional creole plant is a southern favorite introduced to the US around 1700. The small fragrant flowers look like mini magnolia flowers.
Is banana shrub toxic to dogs?
Live Musa Super Dwarf Cavendish Banana Starter Plant If you're looking for something oversized to make a statement, check out the banana tree (Musa). It's a pet-safe option that makes a great stand in for large house plants like the weeping fig, which is unfortunately toxic to cats and dogs.
How long does it take for a banana tree to bear fruit?
Bananas generally take four to six months for fruit to reach full size after flowering, depending on temperature, variety, moisture and culture practices.
What is a banana shrub?
Banana Shrub. This evergreen shrub is like a classic Southern lady—both sweet and tough. Its flowers are incredibly fragrant, and the plant itself is easy to take care of. Gardeners can think of it as a miniature Southern magnolia whose flowers smell like bananas instead of lemons.
How tall does a banana shrub grow?
The plants tend to be slow growing with a rounded, open habit. Banana shrub can grow ten to fifteen feet tall if left unpruned, but the plant takes pruning well and can be maintained at a shorter height with a denser form. It can even trained as an espalier.
Why do bananas bloom?
Banana shrub received its common name because its flowers smell like ripe bananas. It blooms heavily in the spring with cream-colored, one-inch flowers that look like tiny magnolia blossoms edged with crimson. Blooming will continue sporadically throughout the summer.
Can bananas be watered?
Plants should be watered regularly after planting but will become drought tolerant after establishment. Banana shrub is relatively problem free, though the leaves are susceptible to false oleander scale. Treat any scale infestations with a horticultural oil spray, reapplying if necessary.
What is port wine?
The cultivar ‘Port Wine’ has rose to maroon flowers. The plant is evergreen and has glossy, deep green leaves that are three inches long, making it a great backdrop for other garden plants. The buds and immature leaves often have a covering of brown fuzz that the leaves lose as they mature.
Is a banana shrub drought tolerant?
Once established, banana shrub is quite drought tolerant and can work in various light conditions, making it a versatile plant for a number of Florida landscapes. Banana shrub is known scientifically as Michelia figo and is a member of the magnolia family.
Do bananas grow in the sun?
Banana shrub will grow in either sun or light shade. Plants grown in the sun will have a shorter, tighter form and the leaves will be more yellowish green.
What is the scientific name of a magnolia shrub?
Latin Names. While many still use Michelia figo as the scientific name for this shrub, it has been placed by some botanists with the magnolias and had its name changed to Magnolia figo. You may also see it written as Michelia fuscata. It is considered to be part of the Magnoliaceae family.
What is a banana shrub?
The banana shrub ( Michelia figo or Magnolia figo) is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that is not actually related to banana trees, which are part of the Musaceae family. It features creamy flowers that give off the scent of bananas.
How big are Michelia figo leaves?
Foliage, Flowers, and Fruit. The glossy green leaves of Michelia figo are oblong and 3 to 5 inches long. They persist throughout the year. The banana-scented, creamy yellow blossoms are up to 1 1/2 inches across. They have a purple margin and are similar to those of other magnolias.
What is Magnolia Figo?
In addition to banana shrub, Magnolia figo is also known as port wine magnolia, banana magnolia, Chinese tulip tree, and brown-stalked magnolia.
How tall does a banana tree get?
The dense foliage growth and overall rounded form give the banana shrub a lush, tropical quality. It usually grows 6 to 10 feet tall with a similar spread.
Why is my tree getting black mold?
Black sooty mold can be present if the tree is infested with scales. These produce a sugary sticky substance called honeydew that encourages the mold to form. Controlling any scale problems will help prevent and control this fungus. Mushroom rot is a sign of a serious problem and necessitates destroying the shrub.
What is mushroom rot?
Mushroom rot is a sign of a serious problem and necessitates destroying the shrub. Help prevent it by keeping the plant in good health. Article Sources. The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles.
How tall does a banana shrub grow?
Sporting thick, glossy leaves like magnolia and waxy cup-shape flowers, banana shrub has multiple stems, a rounded habit and grows 10 to 15 feet tall if left unpruned. It tolerates pruning with ease and is easily maintained at 4 to 5 feet tall.
What color are banana plants?
Plants grown in the sun will mature to a smaller size and have a more compact habit and their leaves will take on a yellow hue. Plants grown in light shade have medium green foliage and a slightly open, spreading habit. Banana shrub can be hard to find in the landscape nursery.
What is the name of the shrub with the thick green leaves?
Banana Shrub. Banana shrub sports thick, glossy dark green leaves (similar to those of magnolia) and flower buds cupped by six petals each that bloom from spring to summer. Its common name refers to the intense bananalike fragrance of those creamy yellow blossoms.
What is the flower of Port Wine?
This is an excellent plant but there is one cultivar that offers a unique flower. 'Port Wine' banana shrub has rose to maroon flowers—the flowers fade to cream as they age but the young maroon blossoms are striking.
How tall does a broadleaf evergreen grow?
This broadleaf evergreen, which has multiple stems and a rounded habit, grows 6 to 10 feet tall and wide if left unpruned. But don’t worry; it tolerates pruning well and is easily maintained at 4 to 5 feet tall.
Do banana shrubs have sparse branches?
Note that banana shrub nursery specimens often exhibit sparse branching and limited foliage. They will quickly fill out once they are planted in the landscape.
Can banana shrubs be used as a living screen?
Employ a mixed shrub border as a living screen. Banana shrub along with other easy-to-grow shrubs will not only mask views, but the shrubs are welcome wildlife habitats, providing food and nesting space. Check out banana shrub's cousin, magnolia tree.
How tall do banana trees grow?
Michelia banana shrubs are more properly trees that can grow 6 to 15 feet (2 to 4.5 m.) in height. If you are a warm region gardener, you should explore how to grow banana shrubs and experience the sweet fragrant flowers with a scent reminiscent of our favorite yellow fruits.
What is a Michelia banana shrub?
Michelia banana shrubs are members of the Magnolia family , which is evident in the shape and form of their large blooms. The tree has glossy evergreen leaves and an attractive, rounded habit. The 3-inch (7.5 cm.) long leaves are slightly fuzzy, and buds and new leaves are covered in rusty toned fuzz. But these aren’t its most spectacular attributes.
What is the best soil for planting a banana shrub?
Choose a sunny location when planting a banana shrub, with well draining soil and adequate organic matter. Acidic soils create the best medium for planting a banana shrub.
How to prevent transferring diseases from a plant to another plant?
Always use sharp, clean cutting implements to prevent transferring diseases from plant to plant. Cut just after a bud node and remove any branch back to the branch collar where it sprung from the parent wood. Remove any dead or broken plant material and continue training young plants.
Is Michelia a low maintenance tree?
Michelia banana shrubs are low maintenance trees with no root invasiveness. Once established they are remarkably resistant to most pest and disease problems. Scale insects, however, are of particular concern and can cause severe defoliation but are easily managed with organic horticultural oil.
Can you grow Michelia bananas in containers?
Michelia banana shrubs tend to grow straighter in one central leader in lower light situations but in full sun they require more pruning maintenance. You can even keep the trees trimmed in a low habit so you can grow them in a container. Printer Friendly Version. This article was last updated on 02/01/21.
Can a sage tree survive in the desert?
Sadly this plant is not at all hardy and will not survive in temperate or cooler zones. It has great drought tolerance but is not suitable for desert scenarios either. The tree is excellent used as a screen or planted near the home so you can enjoy the fragrance.
What did George Washington Carver do?
He invented ways to prevent soil depletion and developed scores of products made from peanuts, including paints and cosmetics. He won numerous honors, such as the Spingarn Medal.
Why is agricultural science important?
The responsibilities of agricultural scientists involve formulation of scientific methods and implement those methods successfully to get better result in agricultural productivity. These scientific methods play a key role in developing ...
What is Claude Hope known for?
Claude Hope is best known for his role in turning the impatiens, an African river plant, into the most popular bedding plant in the US. In 1992, a book was written about him titled A Master of Seeds: The Life and Work of Claude Hope by Ricardo Arias Martinez. Hope was also honored for his social, economic contributions to Costa Rica.
Who was the father of the Green Revolution?
Norman Borlaug was an American agronomist who played a key role in the Green Revolution, a set of research technology transfer initiatives that increased agricultural production, for which he won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970. Nicknamed the Father of the Green Revolution, Borlaug was also honored with the Congressional Gold Medal and Presidential Medal of Freedom for his work.
Who is Erich von Tschermak?
Austrian botanist and agronomist Erich von Tschermak is remembered for his research on seed breeding and his illustrious teaching career at the Academy of Agriculture. He studied the garden pea extensively and developed disease-resistant variants of wheat and oats. He was also part of the Royal Swedish Academy of Agriculture.
Who was Eliza Lucas?
Eliza Lucas was an agronomist who redefined agriculture in colonial South Carolina by developing indigo as one of the region's most prominent cash crops. The processing of indigo as dye influenced the colony's economy greatly before the Revolutionary War. She was the first woman to be be inducted into the South Carolina's Business Hall of Fame in the 20th century.
Who is Sonny Perdue?
Sonny Perdue is an American businessman, veterinarian, and politician. From 2017 to 2021, he served as the United States Secretary of Agriculture. He also served as the 81st Governor of Georgia and became the first Republican to serve in that position since the Reconstruction era. Sonny Perdue is also credited with founding an agricultural trading company called AGrowStar.
Latin Names
Common Names
- In addition to banana shrub, Magnolia figois also known as port wine magnolia, banana magnolia, Chinese tulip tree, and brown-stalked magnolia.
Size and Shape
- The dense foliage growth and overall rounded form give the banana shrub a lush, tropical quality. It usually grows 6 to 10 feet tall with a similar spread.
Sun Exposure
- Choose a site where your shrub will be able to enjoy full sunto part shade. Shrubs planted in shade tend to become more open and spreading than those in full sun. Heavy sun exposure can give the leaves a pale yellow cast.
Foliage, Flowers, and Fruit
- The glossy green leaves of Michelia figoare oblong and 3 to 5 inches long. They persist throughout the year. The banana-scented, creamy yellow blossoms are up to 1 1/2 inches across. They have a purple margin and are similar to those of other magnolias. Small red follicular fruit form after the flowers are pollinated.
Design Tips
- The banana shrub can be formed into an informal hedgefor privacy or creating borders. For the latter, they work well mixed with other plants. Their relatively short stature and shade tolerance make them a good choice for understory planting. Two popular varieties—'Port Wine' and 'Stubbs Purple'—have more coloring than the standard species. 'Port Wine' is also on the smaller side. I…
Growing Tips
- This plant will be tolerant of drought once the roots have had a chance to properly establish deep in the ground. It prefers rich, fertile, well-drained loam that is evenly moist and slightly acidic. You may see banana shrubs advertised as being hardy to zone 7, although many suppliers stop at zone 8. To prevent early blooms in colder regions, do not plant it in warm south-facing locations …
Pests and Diseases
- Scales will suck sap from the tree. Use horticultural oil when the insects are young (early spring) and susceptible.1 However, do not use oil on hot days, as it can burn the leaves. Black sooty moldcan be present if the tree is infested with scales. These produce a sugary sticky substance called honeydew that encourages the mold to form. Controlling any scale problems will help pre…
Appearance
Cultivation
- Sadly this plant is not at all hardy and will not survive in temperate or cooler zones. It has great drought tolerance but is not suitable for desert scenarios either. The tree is excellent used as a screen or planted near the home so you can enjoy the fragrance. The tree responds well to annual pruning. Pruning banana shrubs should be done when the plant is most dormant in winte…
Reproduction
- Propagation is through stem cuttings using a rooting hormone. The flowers do turn into small hard fruits with multiple tiny seeds but the seeds are generally not viable.
Ecology
- Michelia banana shrubs are low maintenance trees with no root invasiveness. Once established they are remarkably resistant to most pest and disease problems. Scale insects, however, are of particular concern and can cause severe defoliation but are easily managed with organic horticultural oil.
Management
- Some root rot conditions may arise where the soil is too rich and moist. Young plants should be trained to one leader for the best overall effect on mature specimens. New banana shrub care should start with effective pruning of extra stems and suckers at the base of the plant. Choose the strongest, straightest trunk to provide a stable and attractive base for the plant.
Prevention
- Cut just after a bud node and remove any branch back to the branch collar where it sprung from the parent wood. Remove any dead or broken plant material and continue training young plants. Use a stake and tree sling when trees are forming, to help support the young growth. Remove these items when the plant is established and strong.
Culture
- Michelia banana shrubs tend to grow straighter in one central leader in lower light situations but in full sun they require more pruning maintenance. You can even keep the trees trimmed in a low habit so you can grow them in a container.