Japanese Fiber Banana (Musa basjoo)

Japanese Fiber Banana – Cold-Hardy Banana for Temperate Gardens

Musa basjoo, known as Japanese Fiber Banana or Japanese Hardy Banana, is the most cold-tolerant banana species, surviving temperatures down to -10°F (-23°C) with heavy mulch. It is a fast-growing, herbaceous perennial that forms a "trunk" of tightly wrapped leaf sheaths, reaching 10–15 feet tall. The huge, paddle-shaped leaves are shredded by wind, giving a tropical texture. It rarely fruits in cool climates but is grown for its dramatic foliage. It requires full sun, rich soil, and abundant water.

Taxonomic Details