Banana 'Dwarf Cavendish' (Musa acuminata)
The Dwarf Cavendish banana plant is a popular and versatile variety cherished by home gardeners and tropical fruit enthusiasts. This compact cultivar is a smaller version of the traditional banana tree, typically reaching heights of only 6 to 8 feet, making it an excellent choice for both outdoor gardens and indoor spaces. Cavendish fruit is about the same size as regular Cavendish banana fruit: an impressive 8-10 inches!
Known for producing the classic, sweet bananas that are often seen in grocery stores, the Dwarf Cavendish yields bunches of medium-sized, richly flavored fruits. The bananas are characterized by their bright yellow peel and soft, creamy flesh, ideal for eating fresh, in desserts, or for baking.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Dwarf Cavendish is its suitability for container growing. Its modest size allows it to thrive in pots, which is perfect for those with limited space or who wish to bring a tropical vibe to patios, balconies, or indoor settings. Despite its smaller stature, the plant does not skimp on visual appeal. It boasts broad, lush green leaves that bring an ornamental and exotic feel to any space.
The Dwarf Cavendish is also relatively easy to care for, requiring consistent moisture, regular fertilization, and plenty of sunlight. It's a hardy variety that can tolerate a range of conditions but prefers a warm, sheltered environment to flourish and produce fruit. This banana plant is an excellent choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of tropical gardening with a manageable and rewarding variety.
Plant Type:
Fruit Tree / Evergreen Perennial Herb
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.
Harvest Season:
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)
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.
Soil & Moisture:
Thrives in ample humidity! Bananas like to be planted high on a mound in rich, moist well-drained soil, nitrogen-rich soil, and humid conditions similar to their native areas 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.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Fast, Very Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Our bananas are grown from tissue cultures and are capable of fruiting within 1 year.
