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Description
Musella, also known as the golden lotus banana plant, is a unique and exotic plant that belongs to the banana family. It is native to the Yunnan province in China and is known for its golden yellow flowers that resemble a lotus flower. Musella is a slow-growing plant that can reach a height of up to six feet and a width of up to four feet. It is a great plant for adding a tropical touch to your garden or indoor space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Zingiberales |
| Family | Musaceae |
| Genus | Musella |
Appearance
Musella has long, narrow leaves that are green in color and can grow up to three feet long. The leaves are arranged in a circular pattern, giving the plant a unique look. The flowers of the Musella plant are its most distinctive feature. They are golden yellow in color and resemble a lotus flower. The flowers grow on a long stem that can reach up to three feet tall. The Musella plant can produce up to 200 flowers in a single blooming season, which typically occurs in the summer.
Care Guide
Water
Musella prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during the summer months when it is in its blooming season. Make sure to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause damage.
Fertilization
Musella benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Soil
Musella prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that contains equal parts of peat moss, sand, and perlite is ideal.
Sunlight
Musella prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon, but it should be protected from the intense midday sun.
Hardiness Zones
Musella is hardy in zones 8 to 11. It can be grown as an indoor plant in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Musella is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if the soil is too moist. To prevent this, make sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Musella is native to the Yunnan province in China, where it grows in mountainous areas at elevations of up to 6,500 feet. It prefers a cool, humid climate and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Musella be grown as an indoor plant?
A: Yes, Musella can be grown as an indoor plant in cooler climates. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Musella be fertilized?
A: Musella benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the winter months.
Q: What is the blooming season for Musella?
A: Musella typically blooms in the summer months.
Q: What is the ideal soil mix for Musella?
A: Musella prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that contains equal parts of peat moss, sand, and perlite is ideal.
Related Plants
- Banana plant (Musa)
- Heliconia
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/golden-lotus-banana/musella-lasiocarpa-care.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/golden-lotus-banana/caring-for-golden-lotus-banana-plants.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/golden-lotus-banana/growing-golden-lotus-banana-plants.htm
