Michelia figo (Banana Shrub)


Botanical Information

FamilyMagnoliaceae
GenusMichelia
Speciesfigo
SynonymsMichelia fuscata.
CategoryWoody
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginEastern Asia and southern China.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7 - 10
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone8
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH2 - H5
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-12.2 - 1.7
Temperature (°F)10 - 35
Height2 - 6 m
Spread2 - 5 m
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodApril, May, June, July

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionPrefers a site exposed to full sun to part-shade, and tends to become more open in form when planted in shade.
PropagationFrom softwood cuttings
PestsScale insect might pose a problem..
Notable SpecimensBok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida, United States of America.
HabitatBroad-leaved evergreen forests, shady slopes and along river banks
Leaf DescriptionThe glossy green leaves of Michelia figo are oblong, 7 - 12 cm long, and persist throughout the year.
Flower DescriptionThe creamy yellow blossoms, with banana scent, are up to 4 cm across.
Fruit DescriptionSmall red follicular fruit form after the flowers are pollinated.

Photographs