The Musa basjoo, or hardy banana, brings a unique tropical aesthetic to landscapes. Its striking appearance and surprising cold tolerance make it a popular choice for gardeners.
Musa Basjoo Overview
The Musa basjoo is a fast-growing herbaceous perennial with large, paddle-shaped leaves (up to 6 feet long and 2 feet wide) that arch from a thick, trunk-like pseudostem. Though it produces small, inedible green fruit, the plant is grown primarily for its ornamental foliage.
Despite its tropical appearance, Musa basjoo is notably cold-hardy, with underground rhizomes capable of surviving winter temperatures down to -10°F to -20°F when properly mulched. It is suitable for USDA Zones 5-10, though above-ground growth typically dies back in winter in colder regions (Zones 5-8). This plant grows rapidly, reaching heights of 6 to 14 feet in a single growing season.
Planting Your Musa Basjoo
Selecting an appropriate site is crucial for Musa basjoo. The plant thrives in full sun, ideally receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, though it can tolerate partial shade. Strong winds can shred its large leaves, so choosing a sheltered location or providing wind protection is beneficial to maintain its appearance.
Proper soil preparation ensures robust growth. Musa basjoo prefers organically rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Amend the soil with generous compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage, working it 8 to 12 inches deep. This creates an ideal environment for its extensive root system.
When planting, dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the plant’s root ball. Position the Musa basjoo so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil, or slightly deeper in colder climates for added corm insulation. After backfilling with amended soil, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate air pockets.
Ongoing Care Guidelines
Musa basjoo requires consistent, abundant watering, especially during warm, dry periods. While they require consistently moist soil, ensuring adequate drainage is equally important to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Water deeply, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly between waterings, and increase frequency during peak summer heat.
Rapid growth demands regular nutrient replenishment. During the active growing season (spring through summer), fertilize regularly with a high-nitrogen fertilizer. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied monthly, or a water-soluble option every two weeks, supports vigorous foliage. Incorporating organic matter like compost also enriches soil fertility.
Pruning Musa basjoo involves removing dead, damaged, or tattered leaves to maintain health and appearance. As older, lower leaves naturally yellow and die back, they can be trimmed off at the stem. This practice also improves air circulation, which can help deter pests and diseases. New shoots, or “pups,” can be allowed to grow to form a larger clump or removed to encourage the main pseudostem’s growth.
Overwintering Musa Basjoo
Protecting Musa basjoo through colder months is important in many climates, as above-ground growth is sensitive to freezing temperatures despite rhizome hardiness. In USDA Zones 5-8, the pseudostem typically dies back to the ground after the first hard frost. Winter preparation usually begins when temperatures consistently drop below 50°F and leaves show significant die-back.
For in-ground plants, cut the pseudostem back to 1 to 2 feet after frost kills the foliage. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch (straw, leaves, or shredded bark) 6 to 12 inches deep around the base to insulate rhizomes. For additional protection, a chicken wire cage can be built around cut stems, filled with insulating material, and topped with a tarp to keep it dry.
Alternatively, in-ground rhizomes can be dug up for indoor storage, especially in very cold winters or poor drainage. After cutting foliage, carefully excavate the root ball, removing excess soil. Store the rhizome in a cool, dark, frost-free location (e.g., basement or garage) with minimal watering during dormancy. Hanging the rhizome upside down for a week or two before storage helps drain moisture and prevent rot.
Container-grown Musa basjoo can be brought indoors before the first hard frost. Overwinter them as houseplants in a sunny room with reduced watering and fertilization, or allow them to go dormant in a cool, dark, frost-free area, similar to dug rhizomes. During dormancy, provide only occasional small amounts of water to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Yellowing leaves can signal several issues, often nutrient deficiency (nitrogen, potassium, or magnesium). Overwatering or insufficient drainage can also lead to yellowing as roots suffocate. Conversely, underwatering stresses the plant, resulting in yellowing.
Brown leaf tips or edges often indicate low humidity, salt buildup, or inconsistent watering. Consistent moisture and occasional soil flushing (for container plants) can mitigate salt accumulation. Adequate humidity, especially for indoor plants, prevents leaf crisping.
While generally disease-resistant, Musa basjoo can face pests like spider mites and aphids. Regular inspection and prompt organic control prevent widespread damage. Lack of vigorous growth typically points to insufficient light, water, or nutrients, requiring a review of care guidelines.