Blood Banana (Musa acuminata var. zebrina)
Striking Ornamental Banana with Edible Fruit
Common Names: Blood Banana, Red Banana, Zebrina Banana
Family: Musaceae
Origin: Southeast Asia
The Blood Banana (Musa acuminata var. zebrina) is a stunning ornamental banana plant known for its large, vibrant green leaves streaked with deep red and purple hues, making it a striking addition to any tropical garden or landscape. While primarily grown for its striking foliage, this banana variety also produces small, edible bananas, though they are primarily enjoyed as an ornamental plant due to the fruit’s seedy texture. Native to Southeast Asia, Blood Banana thrives in warm, tropical environments and brings an exotic flair to both gardens and indoor spaces when grown in containers.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Ornamental Value
Fruits: Blood Bananas produce small, edible bananas that are sweet but contain numerous seeds, making them more suitable for ornamental use rather than large-scale consumption. The fruit is typically enjoyed fresh or used in local culinary dishes in its native regions, though the plant's true value lies in its ornamental appeal.
Foliage: The large, paddle-shaped leaves of the Blood Banana are its most striking feature. The leaves are bright green with dramatic streaks of dark red and purple, creating a bold contrast that stands out in any garden or container setting.
Growth Habit: Blood Banana is a fast-growing, herbaceous perennial that typically reaches 6-10 feet tall, depending on its growing conditions. It can be grown outdoors in warm climates or as a container plant in cooler regions, making it highly versatile.
Ornamental and Edible Uses
Blood Banana is often used as a showpiece plant in tropical landscapes, container gardens, or as a statement indoor plant due to its eye-catching foliage. Its bold colors and fast growth make it a favorite for adding a lush, tropical vibe to gardens. The plant does produce small, edible bananas, though they are filled with seeds and are not commonly grown for fruit production.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type |
Perennial Fruiting Plant / Ornamental Plant |
| Harvest Season |
Varies by variety; typically year-round in suitable climates |
| Mature Size |
6-25 feet tall, depending on the variety; 6-10 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture |
Rich, well-draining soil; consistently moist but not waterlogged |
| Light Requirements |
Full Sun to Partial Shade (depending on the variety) |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Self-fertile | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation |
Grown from tissue culture, offsets (pups), or rhizome divisions; most varieties produce pups within a growing season, and mature plants can fruit within 9-20 months depending on the size and variety. |
Full Growing Guide
Did you know? The banana plant is actually an evergreen perennial fruiting herb, not a tree! The large ‘trunk’ is actually a pseudostem, which is made of bulky, leafy layers that emerge and wither over time. Banana plants are fast-growing, and prone to reproducing new plants through mini clones known as suckers.
Banana plants are a striking addition to any garden, offering lush foliage and, in some varieties, delicious fruit. While Sow Exotic carries a diverse range of banana varieties, from the rare and exotic to the more common types, the general care for banana plants is quite similar across the board. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you nurture these tropical beauties, ensuring they thrive in your garden.
Climate and Sunlight
Bananas are tropical and subtropical plants, thriving in warm climates with plenty of sunlight. They prefer full sun, receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct light each day. However, some varieties can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates where too much direct sun can scorch the leaves. For those in cooler regions, growing bananas in pots that can be moved indoors during the colder months is an ideal solution.
Soil Requirements
Banana plants prefer rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Amending your soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can help create the ideal growing environment. Good drainage is crucial, as banana plants are susceptible to root rot if left in waterlogged conditions. Bananas like to be planted high on a mound in rich, moist but well-drained, nitrogen-rich soil, and humid conditions similar to their native tropical and subtropical regions. In well-drained soil, bananas can almost never get too much water, sunlight, and nutrients. Water regularly to maintain leaves and promote fruit production.
Watering Needs
Thrives in ample humidity! Bananas are water-loving plants, requiring consistent moisture to thrive. Water deeply and regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool. During the hottest parts of the year, you may need to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out. However, avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Bananas are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or similar, applying it every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. You can also supplement with organic options like compost tea, fish emulsion, or well-aged manure to provide additional nutrients. Be sure to water the plant thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent root burn.
Mature Size
Really varies depending on variety. Some dwarf banana varieties grow only to 2-3 ft where other banana types reach up to 40 ft tall. Most banana plants can be grown easily in containers and overwintered indoors if needed. We recommend a minimum 7 gal. planter size. Banana plants are fast-growing, and prone to reproducing new plants through mini clones known as suckers.
Pruning and Maintenance
Banana plants require minimal pruning. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy and attractive. After a banana plant produces fruit, it will die back. Cut the spent pseudostem (the trunk-like structure) to the ground level to allow space for new pups (offshoots) to grow. It's essential to manage these pups by allowing only the strongest ones to mature, as overcrowding can reduce fruit production.
Pests and Diseases
Banana plants can be susceptible to pests like aphids, spider mites, and banana weevils. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed. Diseases such as Panama disease or banana bunchy top virus can also affect bananas, so it's crucial to source your plants from reputable suppliers like Sow Exotic and to maintain good garden hygiene.
Harvesting
For fruiting varieties, bananas are typically ready to harvest 75-80 days after flowering. Harvest the bunch when the fruits are full-sized but still green. They will ripen off the plant. Cut the entire stalk with a sharp knife and hang it in a cool, shaded area to allow the bananas to ripen evenly. Some ornamental varieties may not produce edible fruit, but their vibrant foliage and unique flowers are enough to make them a garden centerpiece.
Harvest can be year-round, but most predominantly in the warm summer months. With good care, bananas are capable of producing fruit within the first 15-18 months of planting. It will take 9-15 months before the tree starts flowering and an additional 2-6 months before the bananas are ready to be picked. (Expect approximately 3-6 months less time from planting to fruit for Banana plants in our XL Pot Size)
Final Tips
Whether you're growing bananas for their fruit or ornamental value, providing the right care will ensure they thrive and bring a touch of the tropics to your garden. Pair this general guide with the specific care instructions for your chosen variety to maximize your success. Happy gardening!
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type: | Herbaceous Perennial |
| Harvest Season: | Fall (for fruit) |
| Mature Size: | 6-10 feet tall, 4-6 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture: | Well-draining, fertile soil; regular watering with consistent moisture |
| Light Requirements: | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate: | Fast |
| Self-fertile: | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness: | Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+; Grown as a container plant in cooler zones |
| Propagation: | Grown from tissue culture, suckers or pups; capable of producing fruit within 1-2 years under optimal conditions. |
Growing Guide for Blood Banana
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Blood Banana thrives in warm, humid climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It does not tolerate frost, so in cooler regions, it should be grown in containers and moved indoors during colder months.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0). Adding organic compost or manure improves soil fertility and promotes healthy growth.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location. Blood Banana prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil and mix in organic matter or compost to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant in the spring or early summer when the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed.
- Spacing: Space plants 4-6 feet apart to allow for their spreading habit.
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Blood Bananas require steady moisture, especially during the growing season, to thrive.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the plant receives 6-8 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and vibrant foliage color. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf burn.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can be applied to boost growth.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Low Maintenance: Blood Bananas are relatively low-maintenance plants. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy and healthy. The plant will produce "pups" or suckers at its base, which can be removed and replanted to propagate new plants.
- Container Growing: This variety grows well in large containers, making it ideal for patios or indoor spaces. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has proper drainage.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Blood Bananas may attract pests like aphids, spider mites, or banana weevils. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.
- Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and proper drainage to prevent fungal issues like root rot or leaf spot.
Harvesting Blood Bananas
When to Harvest:
- Blood Bananas typically fruit 2-3 years after planting. The fruit is ready to harvest when it turns yellow, though the bananas are small and filled with seeds, making them more ornamental than edible.
How to Use:
- The fruit can be eaten fresh but is not commonly consumed due to its seedy texture. It is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage rather than fruit production.
