Musa Acuminata – Banana Plant
Banana plants have evolved from 1000`s of different wild varieties in to what is now grown globally, and are eaten everywhere, every day, with approx. 55 million tonnes being consumed each year. The Cavendish Banana is actually a giant herb which can reach heights of 2-3 metres. The large paddle shaped leaves form a trunk ( pseudostem ) on which male and female flowers are borne. Mature plants will produce fruits in clusters of 10-20, which start green and ripen to yellow.
The pseudostem is monocarpic, once flowering, so it will die down once it has flowered. Offsets grow rapidly to replace the original stem and in turn will flower and fruit.
Treated as a houseplant it will provide a lush, tropical feel to a large bright space, although it will probably remain a lot smaller than in its natural habitat.
Easy care, and excellent air purifiers, make these a great addition to your collection.
Follow these tips for success:
Musa grow best in bright, indirect light. They are happy with a few hours of early morning, or late afternoon sun, but the large leaves can scorch in excessive direct light.
Musa are fast growing, and thirsty plants. Water thoroughly during the hottest times of the year, just make sure that you allow the top of the compost to dry slightly between watering.
Feed twice a month during growth.
Average room temperatures between 18-27c is ok, and will tolerate cooler spells down to 10c.
Extra humidity helps to keep the leaves hydrated, so a regular misting, or kept in steamy kitchen or bathroom would help.
Minimum Temp: 10c
Aftercare:
In Winter reduce the amount and frequency of water, and do not feed.
Overly dry air, associated with modern central heating, can dry out the leaves. Help increase humidity by standing on a saucer of moist gravel, or an occasional misting will help.
It`s unlikely that you will suddenly find a ripe bunch of bananas in your home, but you never know.
Warnings:
Listed as non toxic to pets and humans.
