Musella lasiocarpa – China yellow banana Golden lotus banana
Musa Lasiocarpa is also known as China yellow banana and golden lotus banana plant. A stunning small shrubby banana forming a dense clump 1.2–1.5m high with a similar spread. The leaves are paddle-like, stiff and upright in habit in a shade of matte greyish green. Continue reading below
Musa lasiocarpa – Hardy Flowering Chinese Banana – Musella
Hardy flowering banana tree
The flower head is exceptional, looking somewhat like a globe artichoke flower head in a shade of rich ochre yellow, though it usually takes 3-5 years to bloom from a small plant. Because of its size, it is ideal for restricted space or as a container plant in a sunny warm position.
Mature plants can be divided in late spring once they have started growing. In China the whole plant is used as pig fodder! Hardy to –5C for short periods if heavily protected with straw and fleece during the winter months though it is probably advisable to dig up and store frost free to guarantee you have it the following year!
Other great banana trees or banana plants to grow and buy in the UK are of course the Musa Basjoo, Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’ – Red Abyssinian Ethiopian banana, Musa lasiocarpa, Musa Sikkimensis and Musa Acuminata Dwarf Cavendish.
- How to overwinter banana plants through the winter months
- GROW GUIDE: How to grow banana plants
- What Should I Plant with Musa Basjoo?
- Can you grow a banana plant indoors?
- Can you grow banana fruit in a UK garden?
How to grow Musa lasiocarpa
Common Name: China yellow banana, golden lotus banana
Latin Name: Musella lasiocarpa
Tenderness Rating: Hardy to -3c with protection – (Digging up advised!)
Ease of growing: Easy
Position: Full sun to dappled shade
Soil Condition: Well drained fertile soil
Where to buy Musella lasiocarpa or find for sale in the UK:
Musella lasiocarpa – A Unique, Cold-Hardy Banana Plant for UK Gardens
Musella lasiocarpa, commonly known as the Chinese Yellow Banana or Golden Lotus Banana, is an extraordinary banana plant native to the high-altitude regions of southwestern China. This unique plant is celebrated for its intriguing appearance, featuring a stunning golden-yellow flower and its ability to tolerate cooler temperatures. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, cultivation, and care of Musella lasiocarpa, making it an excellent choice for UK gardens.
Origins and Characteristics
Musella lasiocarpa belongs to the same family as the Musa genus (Musaceae) but is the only species in the Musella genus. The plant is known for its compact size, growing up to 1.5 metres in height, and its striking golden-yellow flower that emerges from the top of the plant. The large, paddle-shaped leaves resemble those of a banana plant, but with a more upright growth habit. The flowers can last for several months, adding a unique, exotic touch to gardens.
Cultivation and Care
To successfully grow Musella lasiocarpa in UK gardens, follow these care tips:
- Soil: Plant your Musella lasiocarpa in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level of 6.0 to 6.5. Adding organic matter, such as compost, can improve soil fertility and drainage.
- Light: Provide full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Musella lasiocarpa can tolerate a range of light conditions, but it will thrive with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Water: Maintain consistent moisture by watering regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilisation: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser during the growing season (spring through summer) to support growth and flower production.
- Winter Care: Although Musella lasiocarpa is cold-hardy, it is essential to protect it from frost. In colder climates, consider growing the plant in a container and moving it indoors or to a heated greenhouse during the winter months.
Landscape Use
Musella lasiocarpa is a versatile plant that adds an exotic touch to various garden settings. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for small gardens, mixed borders, or container gardens. The stunning golden-yellow flower creates a striking focal point, while the lush, green foliage adds texture and depth to the landscape.
Conclusion
Musella lasiocarpa is a unique and cold-hardy banana plant, perfect for UK gardens. With its compact size, intriguing golden-yellow flower, and lush foliage, it makes a beautiful addition to a variety of garden settings. By following the cultivation tips outlined in this article, UK gardeners can successfully grow and enjoy the beauty of Musella lasiocarpa in their gardens.
Other types of banana trees / banana plants you can buy and grow in the UK
