Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Musa basjoo
Hardy Banana
- Family
- Musaceae
- Height
- 10–15 feet
- Width
- 6–10 feet
- Flower color
- Cream to yellow
- Foliage color
- Bright green, with large, broad, and elongated leaves that give a tropical appearance
- Bloom time
- Summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Regular
- Maintenance
- Prune dead leaves and protect from strong winds; mulch heavily in winter to protect roots from cold
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5–11
- Wildlife
- Not specified; does not produce edible fruit
About this plant
Musa basjoo is a hardy ornamental plant that adds a tropical touch to gardens, even in cooler climates. This variety features large, broad, lush green leaves that can grow up to 6 feet long, creating a dramatic, exotic look. The plant's tall, upright habit and bold foliage make it an excellent choice for creating a lush backdrop in garden beds or as a focal point in landscape design.
Musa basjoo is known for its cold tolerance compared to other banana species, able to withstand temperatures down to around 20°F when properly mulched. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full to partial sun. Despite its size, it is relatively low-maintenance and can be cut back in the fall to help it survive colder months. Its large foliage and impressive stature make Musa basjoo a notable and hardy addition to both tropical and temperate gardens.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Rain Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Sedums · Peonies · Coneflowers · Salvias · Shasta daisies · Asters
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
