deep blue green Dwarf Maoli Banana leaves frame a large bunch of green bananas and long stem that connects to the banana flower

Banana 'Dwarf Maoli' (Musa kaualau)

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Pot Size

Sow Exotic now carries the rare Hawaiian 'Dwarf Maoli' Banana!

This unique Dwarf Maoli cultivar is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific. It is a herbaceous plant that is fast growing,and grows to a mature height of only 7-14 ft tall. The Dwarf Maoli has large, thick leaves and because of this is capable of resisting strong winds. Like most other Musa species, the Dwarf Maoli cultivar requires plenty of sunlight, and moist, well drained soil.

What makes the Dwarf Maoli Banana so special is it's prized flavor and wonderfully rich yellow-orange fruit pulp. Don't let it's name fool you, these Bananas are huge and shaped like sausages, making them perfect for cooking! 

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!

 

Our Plantable Coconut Coir & Peat Pots are 100% biodegradable, compostable and can be planted directly in the soil! Our Nursery & Citrapots are recyclable and reusable!
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1 review
  • TM
    Tendai M.
    I recommend this product
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    3 years ago
    Quality plant material and Superb packaging.

    North Georgia Climate Zone 7B This is the first plant I've ordered from this website and I have to say I am impressed. I made my order and it arrived at the appropriate time with no hassle, the banana plant its self was very healthy looking and looked to be viable. Since the pot it came in was biodegradable all I had to do was plant it. It's been 3 months and the plant grew 3 times it's size Since i live in North Georgia Climate Zone 7B I've planted it in a wine barrel so that I can bring it in during the 3 "cold" winter months, although it would grow much better if you plant it in the ground and dig it up before the freeze hits and then store it in the garage or some place where the frost won't get to it. Just my 2 cents;) Excellent product thank you 👍🌱

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