Basjoo Banana (Musa Basjoo)

Dive into a tropical forest ambiance with the “Forestique TropiCold Banana”. Scientifically named Musa basjoo, this banana variety stands as a testament to both captivating ornamental value and unmatched hardiness. Hailing from the Ryukyu Islands of Japan, its expansive, mesmerizing foliage truly transforms landscapes. Its large, vibrant green leaves, stretching up to 6 feet in length, conjure the essence of a lush tropical haven, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into a verdant jungle canopy.

While the Basjoo is known to produce small, inedible fruit with seeds, it’s the creamy-yellow flowers that truly captivate. These stunning blooms emerge gracefully from a drooping inflorescence, adding an extra touch of beauty to gardens and proving to be a visual delight for garden enthusiasts.

The plant’s astounding cold tolerance is another notable feature. Capable of withstanding temperatures as chilling as -10°F (-23°C), with the right mulching, the Basjoo emerges triumphantly even in temperate climates, offering a tropical touch to places you’d least expect.

In its care, the “Forestique TropiCold Banana” flourishes in full sun but is also accommodating to partial shade. A lover of well-draining soil rich in organic compost, it quenches its thirst with regular watering, especially during dry periods. As winter hints its arrival, a little trim and mulch around its base ensure its survival and protection. It’s a rapid grower with the help of balanced fertilization and, while fairly resistant to pests, periodic checks help in maintaining its pristine condition. For those with a penchant for tropical allure, resilience, and a garden centerpiece that’s both a feast for the eyes and a nod to the exotic, this banana plant is an unparalleled gem.

Plant Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, watering deeply especially in warmer months. Reduce watering in cooler months.
• Temperature: Best between 26°C and 30°C. Bananas are not frost-tolerant and require protection or placement in warm climates.
• Light: Full sun is ideal.
• Fertilising: Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer such as 30-10-10 monthly during the growing season to support vigorous leaf growth. Once the plant starts flowering, switch to a high-potassium fertilizer like 15-5-30 to support fruit development.
• Pruning: Regularly remove dead leaves and spent fruit stalks. Cut back the main fruiting stem after harvest to encourage new growth.
• Mulching: Apply heavy mulch to retain soil moisture, provide nutrients, and suppress weeds.
• Pest Control: Look out for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and nematodes. Use eco-friendly pesticides if necessary.
• Flowering and Fruiting: Each pseudostem will fruit once. Fruit typically matures in about 3 to 8 months, depending on conditions and variety.
• Potting: Suitable for large containers, but requires ample space and meticulous care to manage growth and ensure sufficient nutrients.