Why you’ll love the Banana Shrub:
- 🌼Sweet fragrance - like bananas or tropical fruit dessert with creamy vanilla undertones
- 🌸Blooms throughout the growing season - mostly in late winter & early spring
- 🏡Great for gardens, patios, & entryways - where the scent can be enjoyed
- 🌱Low-maintenance & adaptable - perfect for beginner and experienced gardeners
The Banana Shrub (Magnolia figo) is a charming, fragrant evergreen that brings beauty and scent to your garden. Its small, creamy yellow cup-shaped flowers release a warm, sweet fragrance. Banana Shrub’s floral scent is rich, warm and complex, often compared to ripe bananas, or a blend of tropical fruits such as pineapple or melon – layered with sweet, creamy vanilla undertones and hints of jasmine or ylang-ylang – making it an absolute favorite for anyone who loves scented plants. Once in bloom, you’ll notice the delightful aroma even before you see the flowers.
Banana Shrub grows into a dense, attractive shrub that works beautifully as a hedge, accent plant, or foundation planting. This plant is part of the magnolia family and was once known as Michelia figo. With glossy leaves and repeated flowering, Banana Shrub adds interest in every season while remaining easy to care for.
Common Questions
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Does Banana Shrub really smell like bananas?
Yes! Many people describe the fragrance of Banana Shrub blooms as sweet and banana-like, especially on warm days when the flowers are open. However, the fragrance is considered much more complex – gardeners often describe the scent as more like a banana custard or tropical fruit dessert, with notes like pineapple, pear, or melon, and soft vanilla-like creamy undertones. There are warm floral notes, too, such as hints of jasmine or ylang-ylang.
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Is Banana Shrub easy to care for?
Yes. Banana Shrub is considered low-maintenance. It prefers well-draining soil and regular watering while establishing.
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How big does a Banana Shrub grow?
Banana Shrub typically grows up to 6–10 feet tall and wide, but can be kept much smaller as a potted plant depending on pot size, pruning and growing conditions.
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Where should I plant Banana Shrub?
Plant Banana Shrub in full sun to partial shade. Morning sun with some afternoon shade works especially well in warmer climates.
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Is Banana Shrub good for containers?
Yes, Banana Shrub can grow well in large containers, making it a great choice for patios and balconies.
If you’re looking for a plant that smells amazing, looks beautiful, and is easy to grow, Banana Shrub (Magnolia figo) is a wonderful choice. Its fragrance alone makes it unforgettable – and once you have one, you’ll understand why gardeners love it. 🌿🌼
