This rhizomatous perennial has an upright clumping habit forming a fleshy pseudo stem that is composed of leaf bases. The large paddle-shaped mid-green leaves are erect and the cream to yellow flowers appear in summer followed by edible yellow fruit.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Musa acuminatais naturally found in south-east Asia and northern Australia growing in moist humus rich soils in tropical climates but can tolerate mild climates when grown as an ornamental. It prefers a wind protected sunny position with a northerly aspect and is frost and drought tender.

Bananas are grown for their lush appearance and edible fruit and are used in tropical gardens or around water features and as a container plant in cool climates. It is very fast growing up to 30cm (1ft) per week establishing from division in one year. It is commercially grown for its nutritious fruit.ID 1393

Note:
The fruiting quality and habit size is variable and the plant has been cultivated for over 3,000 years and hybridised making it difficult to classify.

Musa (MYOOS-a ) acuminata(ah-kew-min-AH-tah)

Musaceae(mew-SAY-see-ee)
Bananas