Musa basjoo

Name

Musa Basjoo

Common name

Hardy Japanese banana

What you get

You will receive 2ltr pot

About

Musa basjoo is by far the hardiest of bananas and nothing says exotic like basjoo! A fleshy stem grows from a huge underground rhizome and the stem can reach 3m or more. On top there are huge, bright green leaves that can reach over 2m long. When mature basjoo will form a clump of up to 10 stems, and after 4-5 years a stem will flower and produce a hand of small bananas. If you are lucky, when the stem dies more bananas will be produced from the base.

Origin

China and Japan

Planting and care

Musa Basjoo needs moist, rich soil and a sheltered position with plenty of food and water through the growing season. For winter protection cut the leaves off and cut the stem down to 4-5ft. Then, if you can get some, put a piece of corrurgated land drain over the stem then place a pot on top. If you have a clump place bamboo canes around the edge, tie some chicken wire to the canes then fill with straw and cover with plastic.

Planting Companion

Canna indica purpurea

Hedychium greeni

Desert to Jungle is an independent specialist nursery in Somerset, built around a genuine obsession with extraordinary plants. From architectural Agaves and rare succulents to towering tree ferns, bamboos, bananas, gingers and palms, we seek out plants with the power to completely transform a space. Every plant comes with the knowledge of a team who grow, handle and live amongst these plants every day. Whether you're creating a sun-baked desert border, a lush jungle retreat or simply looking for something you won't find in the average garden centre, we're here to help you choose it, grow it and enjoy it.