We're offering you a 1 or 3 Japanese Banana Plants for £7.99, saving you up to 50% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £15.99 (correct as of 13.04.2026).

Exotic Plant

Add Instant Tropical Impact with Hardy Musa basjoo

Musa basjoo, also known as the Japanese Banana Plant, is a perennial from the Musaceae family prized for its dramatic, palm-like foliage. Native to subtropical Asia, this hardy banana brings an exotic flair to UK gardens—no greenhouse required.

• Growth Habit: Forms clumps of upright stems topped with huge, arching leaves up to 2m long.
• Mature Size: Typically reaches 2–3m tall in the UK when planted in the ground.
• Hardiness: Survives outdoors in most UK regions (down to -10°C) if roots are protected with mulch over winter.

Care & Growing Guide

• Planting Location: Best in sheltered spots with full sun or light shade—ideal for patios, borders, or large containers.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers rich, moist but well-drained soil; thrives in neutral to slightly acidic conditions (pH 5.5–7).
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during growing season; reduce watering in winter.
• Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser monthly from spring to late summer for best growth.

Seasonal Care Tips

• Spring: Plant out after last frost; mulch well around the base.
• Summer: Water regularly and feed monthly; remove any damaged leaves to keep plants looking fresh.
• Autumn/Winter: Cut back dead leaves and protect roots with a thick mulch layer in colder areas.

The Perfect Family Garden Addition

Add excitement to your garden design—Musa basjoo’s bold leaves make it a natural centrepiece alongside ferns, hostas, and cannas. Its rapid growth and easy care also make it ideal for introducing children to the joys of gardening.

FAQs

• When is the best time to plant Musa basjoo?
  The best time is spring after the last frost, but you can plant anytime during the growing season if you provide protection from cold snaps.
• How fast does it grow?
  Musa basjoo grows rapidly in warm weather—expect up to 1–2 metres of new growth per year under good conditions.
• Does it need winter protection?
  The roots are hardy but benefit from a thick mulch layer during winter. In colder regions, protect stems with fleece or straw for extra insulation.