Ornamental Banana Tree Species

Musa Ornata

• The ornamental banana species Musa ornata can be found in rose, pink and purple. This species grows quickly, reaching a height of 3 to 5 feet and producing up to eight blooms annually. The bright inflorescence remains erect until bloom. Fruit is embedded in attractive green foliage.

Musa African Red

• The Musa ornata "African Red" grows quickly and begins producing blooms when it is 3 to 4 feet tall. The inflorescence remains erect, unlike dessert bananas, which have a bending stage.

Musa Coccinea

• Musa coccinea has a moderate growth rate, producing five or six blooms annually beginning when it reaches a height of 3 or 4 feet. Blooms on this species are long-lasting and have red bracts encircling yellow flowers.

Chinese Yellow

• The Chinese Yellow banana has grayish-green leaves, grows only 3 to 5 feet tall and features yellow bracts and a cone-shaped flower about 12 inches long. The flower is slightly reminiscent of an artichoke or lotus flower.

Pink Velvet

• The pink velvet banana is an ornamental banana species that can perform well in partial shade. This 5-foot plant features a pink or reddish flower followed by a small, velvety pink banana.

Bloodleaf

• The bloodleaf ornamental banana, also known as Musa acuminata "Zebrina," is especially prized for its foliage. It quickly reaches a height of 8 feet and features leaves that are green with purple-reddish stripes and dark red blotches.

Musa Gracilis

• Musa gracilis is a banana species that grows under 7 feet tall and is native to Thailand and Malaysia. It features an upright purple-pink bud and narrow, magenta and green-striped fruits.