Banana Plants and Trees

Choosing the Right Banana Tree for Your Space

There's more variation in banana plants than you might expect. If you want a robust outdoor plant that will survive UK winters with protection, then hardy Japanese banana (Musa basjoo) is ideal. Ornamental varieties, such as red-stemmed Musa or compact banana plants, are ideal for pots or smaller gardens. If you’re after something with strong architectural presence, then look for varieties with tall stems and broad leaves that create height in borders and tropical-themed planting.

How Banana Plants Grow in UK Conditions

Most varieties of banana trees grow best in full sun, with some wind protection to prevent leaf damage. They like rich, well-drained soil and benefit from regular feeding during the growing season to promote their rapid growth. While they won’t produce fruit outdoors in the UK, they more than make up for it with their fast-growing foliage and striking shape. Hardy banana varieties can stay outdoors year-round provided they are wrapped for winter, while others should be moved into a conservatory or greenhouse when temperatures drop.

Perfect for Pots, Patios and Indoors

Banana plants are surprisingly adaptable. In pots, they make impressive focal points for patios and balconies, given adequate watering and regular feeding. Indoors, the height and dense greenery of a banana leaf plant can add a bold, modern touch to bright rooms. Container-grown banana trees may not grow as large as those planted in the ground, which is an advantage if you’re short on space. With proper care, these plants remain a striking feature from spring through to autumn and bring instant tropical flair wherever you grow them.