Banana Shrub

Banana Shrub

The Banana Shrub (Michelia figo), also known as the Banana Magnolia, is an evergreen ornamental shrub celebrated for its fragrant, creamy yellow flowers that emit a sweet banana-like aroma. Blooming primarily in late spring and summer, its unique scent adds sensory appeal to gardens, patios, or entryways. With a compact growth habit, typically reaching 6–10 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide, it is versatile enough for borders, hedges, or as a standalone specimen.

The Banana Shrub’s glossy, dark green leaves provide year-round visual interest, creating a lush backdrop for its distinctive blooms. This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, making it adaptable to a variety of garden settings. Its tropical appearance, combined with its fragrant flowers, makes it a standout choice for gardeners seeking a dramatic and aromatic addition to their landscape. The shrub is relatively low-maintenance and can be trained or pruned into formal or informal shapes to suit your garden design.

Care Instructions

Planting:
Select a site with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and plant at soil level.

Watering:
Keep soil evenly moist, particularly during hot, dry periods. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.

Pruning:
Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning in winter.

Pest Control:
Monitor for scale insects, aphids, or spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.

Soil Tips:
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5–7.0). Enrich soil with compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.