Contents
Description
Musa Basjoo, also known as Japanese fiber banana, is a tropical plant native to Japan. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 14 feet tall with leaves that can reach up to 10 feet in length. Musa Basjoo is a popular ornamental plant due to its large leaves, which resemble those of a banana tree. The plant can produce small fruit, but they are not typically consumed by humans.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Musaceae |
| Genus | Musa |
Appearance
The Musa Basjoo plant has large leaves that are green in color and have a glossy sheen. The leaves are oblong in shape and can reach up to 10 feet in length. The plant can grow up to 14 feet tall and has a thick, fibrous trunk that is light brown in color. Musa Basjoo produces small, inedible fruit that are green in color and about 2 inches long. The plant blooms in the summer, producing large, yellowish flowers.
Care Guide
Musa Basjoo requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. The plant should be fertilized regularly during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer. Musa Basjoo prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be placed in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in zones 5-11, making it suitable for many regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Musa Basjoo is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests include spider mites and aphids. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and root rot. These can be avoided by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Musa Basjoo is native to Japan and is commonly found in tropical regions. It prefers warm temperatures and humidity, making it ideal for regions with a tropical or subtropical climate.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Musa Basjoo be grown indoors?
A: While Musa Basjoo can be grown indoors, it requires a lot of space and sunlight, making it difficult to care for indoors.
Q: How tall can Musa Basjoo grow?
A: Musa Basjoo can grow up to 14 feet tall.
Q: Is Musa Basjoo frost tolerant?
A: Yes, Musa Basjoo is frost tolerant and can survive in zones 5-11.
Q: Can Musa Basjoo produce edible fruit?
A: While Musa Basjoo can produce small fruit, it is not typically consumed by humans.
Related Plants
- Musa acuminata
- Musa velutina
- Musa ornata
- Musa x paradisiaca
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Musa Basjoo. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/mg374
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Musa Basjoo. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277997&isprofile=0&pt=2
- RHS. (2021). Musa Basjoo. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/54684/Musa-Basjoo/Details
