Banana Shrub Magnolia figo

The Banana Magnolia is a lovely flowering, evergreen shrub in the Magnolia family that grows at a medium rate to 6 to 10 feet tall with an equal spread and a dense, upright, oval to rounded habit. After reaching 10 feet, it will continue to grow more slowly, eventually reaching 20 feet high. This plant blooms in mid to late spring and has fragrant cream to yellow flowers that smell like ripe cantaloupe or banana. Some cultivars have flowers up to 4 inches in diameter. The genus name honors Pierre Magnol, a 17th century French botanist. The species name derives from its description on Macao where the first specimen was found (fula meaning "flower" and figo meaning "banana") referring to the intense banana-like fragrance of the blooms.

This plant must be planted in a location protected from strong winds. It prefers partial shade, but tolerates full sun (although the leaves may turn yellow-green). The plant does best in evenly moist, well-drained, fertile, acidic, sandy loam in organic matter. It is frost tender and grows in USDA zones 7 to 10, but does best in zones 8 to 10. This plant can be severely pruned and is slightly salt tolerant. Prune soon after the bloom period, as flower bud formation for next year occurs by early summer.

In areas near zone 7, avoid locating plants in southern exposures that may induce buds to open too early in spring. A late frost can damage blossoms. Provide consistent and regular moisture throughout the year and avoid soils that are too dry or wet. Mulch the root zone in winter.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on Banana Magnolia.

Quick ID Hints:

• Brown pubescence under leaves and on buds
• Cup-shaped, ivory flower smells like ripe bananas
• Evergreen shrub with magnolia-like leaves
• Axillary flower buds at 30 degrees to stem

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

This plant has no significant pest or disease problems. Scale may be an issue.