Species banana magnolia
Magenta flower with yellow stigma, brown anthers, lime buds, white hair, beige petiole, green stems and leaves

banana magnolia

Magnolia figo

Banana magnolia (Magnolia figo) is a small deciduous tree native to China. It grows up to 10m tall and has dense foliage of large yellow-green leaves. The small yellowish-green flowers are borne on the ends of bare stems in early spring followed by small, edible, banana-like fruits. The bark is light gray and smooth with uneven splits. Banana magnolia is an ornamental tree, perfect for adding some unique and exotics beauty to any garden. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in either sunny or shaded areas.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Creamy pale yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Banana magnolias should be watered once or twice a week, or whenever the top 2-3 inches of soil is dry. Allow the soil to dry out a bit in between waterings and be careful not to overwater. Water the soil deeply and evenly, ensuring that water reaches to the roots of the plant. Watering should be reduced during the winter months when the plant is dormant.

sunlight

Banana magnolia (Magnolia figo) is a plant species that prefers full sun and should be planted in a location that receives at least 8 hours of light per day for optimal growth. During the summer months and in areas with especially sunny conditions, the plant may require a bit of afternoon shade to protect it from the intense sun. During the winter months, banana magnolia can tolerate up to 6 hours of sunlight a day, although it may not bloom if it does not get enough sun. In northern areas, make sure to provide the plant with sufficient sunlight since the days are shorter and the sun is weaker.

pruning

Banana magnolia should be pruned when the plant is actively growing in spring or early summer. Prune lightly to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Prune newly transplanted trees during the first year to encourage growth in the desired direction. Prune the shrub to the desired shape. The goal should be a vase shape with leaves evenly distributed to ensure proper growth. Remove any dead or weak branches, water sprouts, and any rubbing, crossing or distorted branches. Prune back older branches to encourage new growth. Pruning should be done only to remove dead or unhealthy branches and to maintain the desired shape of the shrub.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Banana magnolia typically starts flowering in late April or early May.

Hardiness Map