Banana Magnolia (Magnolia Figo)

Banana Magnolia

Features and Characteristics

Magnolia figo, commonly called banana shrub, is a dense, rounded, multi-stemmed, broadleaf evergreen shrub that typically matures over time to 6-10′ tall and as wide. It is native to China. Cup-shaped, creamy pale yellow flowers (to 1 1/2″ diameter) bloom from spring to summer (April-June). Each flower is made up of six tepals (petal-like sepals) with very thin red margins. Glossy, oblong, evergreen, dark green leaves (to 3-5″ long) are attractive throughout the year.

Synonymous with and formerly known as Michelia figo.

Genus name honors Pierre Magnol, French botanist (1638-171- .

This plant was originally described from a specimen located in the former Portugese colony of Macau, and its specific epithet comes from the local Macanese Patois vernacular name fula figo (fula meaning “flower” and figo meaning “banana”).

The name banana shrub refers to the intense banana-like fragrance of the blooms.

Care and Maintenance

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 8-10 where this magnolia is best grown in evenly moist, fertile, slightly acidic, organically rich, well-drained loams in part shade. Tolerates full sun, but foliage may turn a less attractive yellow green. Also tolerates substantial shade, but plant foliage tends to open up. Site in locations protected from strong winds. In areas near the northern edge of the growing range, avoid locating plants in southern exposures close to houses where the buds may be induced to open too early in spring. Plants appreciate consistent and regular moisture throughout the year, and are generally intolerant of soil extremes (dry or wet). Mulch root zone.

Banana Magnolia (Magnolia Figo) Requirements

Hardiness zone	8 - 10
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for scale. Late frosts may damage flowers.

Uses

Excellent understory magnolia for part-shade areas of the landscape. Bushy foundation plant for privacy hedge. Specimen/accent. Shrub borders. Plant in areas where the fragrant flowers can easily be appreciated.

Banana Magnolia (Magnolia Figo) Details

Common name	Banana Magnolia
Botanical name	Magnolia Figo
Plant type	Broadleaf Evergreen
Family	Magnoliaceae
Hardiness zone	8 - 10
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Creamy Pale Yellow
Flowering period	April - June
Height	6 - 10 Ft.
Width	6 - 10 Ft.