Pink Banana (Musa vulpina)
Small Ornamental Banana with Edible Fruit
Botanical Name: Musa velutina (often referred to as Musa vulpina)
Common Names: Pink Banana, Hairy Banana, Velvet Pink Banana
Family: Musaceae
Origin: Southeast Asia, particularly India and the Himalayan region
The Pink Banana (Musa velutina), also known as Velvet Pink Banana, is a stunning ornamental banana plant that produces small, pink, velvety bananas. While primarily grown for its striking beauty, the fruits of the Pink Banana are edible, though they contain many seeds. This compact, fast-growing plant is perfect for adding a tropical touch to gardens, containers, or patios. Its vibrant pink bananas, lush green foliage, and yellow flowers make it a visual standout in any landscape. Despite being a smaller, ornamental variety, the Pink Banana can produce fruits within its first year, making it a delightful and rewarding plant to grow.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Edible Value
Fruits: The Pink Banana produces small, bright pink bananas covered in a velvety, soft skin. The bananas are edible and sweet but filled with large, hard seeds that make them less desirable for consumption compared to commercial bananas. However, they are often enjoyed fresh or used in smoothies and desserts after carefully removing the seeds.
Foliage: The plant has broad, bright green leaves that resemble those of larger banana species, creating a lush, tropical look. The leaves grow on thick stems, and the plant forms a tight, compact clump, making it ideal for smaller spaces or containers.
Growth Habit: Pink Banana is a fast-growing, dwarf variety that typically reaches 3-5 feet tall. It is perfect for tropical gardens, greenhouses, or container gardening. The plant produces flowers and fruits in its first year under ideal conditions.
Ornamental and Edible Uses
While Pink Banana fruits are edible, the plant is primarily grown for its ornamental value due to its striking pink fruit and lush foliage. It adds an exotic flair to tropical-themed gardens or indoor spaces. The fruit can be eaten fresh, although the seeds need to be removed, and the bananas are often used for decorative purposes or wildlife attraction.
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: | Perennial Tropical Fruit/Herb |
| Harvest Season: | Fall (for fruit) |
| Mature Size: | 3-5 feet tall, 3-4 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture: | Well-draining, fertile soil; regular watering |
| Light Requirements: | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate: | Fast |
| Self-fertile: | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness: | Outdoors 8-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+; Grown as a container plant in cooler zones |
| Propagation: | Grown from seeds or pups; flowers and fruits within 1 year under optimal conditions. |
Growing Guide for Pink Banana
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Pink Banana thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11. It can tolerate mild frost but prefers temperatures between 60-85°F. In cooler regions, it can be grown in containers and moved indoors during winter.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0). Adding compost or organic matter improves soil fertility and promotes healthy growth.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location. Full sun promotes optimal flowering and fruiting, but Pink Banana can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil and mix in organic compost to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant in spring or early summer when the soil is warm.
- Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow room for their spreading habit.
Watering
- Regular Moisture: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Pink Bananas prefer steady moisture, especially during the growing season, but ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the plant receives 6-8 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Organic compost or liquid fertilizer can be added to support vigorous growth.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Low Maintenance: Pink Banana is relatively low-maintenance. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health. After the plant produces fruit, cut back the flowering stem to encourage new growth.
- Container Growing: This variety grows well in 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: The plant 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 avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues like root rot or leaf spot.
Harvesting Pink Bananas
When to Harvest:
- The bananas are ready to harvest in late summer or fall, when they turn bright pink and the skin begins to split open. The fruit is small but sweet and filled with hard seeds.
How to Use:
- The fruit is edible but contains numerous seeds. It can be eaten fresh, added to smoothies, or used in desserts after removing the seeds. The bananas are also often grown for ornamental purposes or to attract wildlife.
