Musa sp. 'Ornamental Group' (Ornamental bananas)
Botanical name: Musa sp.
Common name: Ornamental bananas
Cultivar group: Ornamental Group
Family: Musaceae

Hardiness: 30°F







Musa ornamental refers to a group of banana plants grown primarily for their striking foliage, colorful stems, and unusual flowers rather than for edible fruit. These ornamental bananas often feature bold, tropical-looking leaves that may be green, red, purple, or variegated, depending on the variety. Some cultivars, like Musa ornata or Musa velutina, produce vibrant inflorescences in shades of pink, orange, or yellow, which are followed by small, upright fruits that are typically full of seeds and not intended for consumption. Ornamental bananas add a lush, exotic feel to gardens and landscapes, thriving in full sun to partial shade with rich, moist, and well-draining soil. They require regular watering during the growing season and protection from cold. Best suited for USDA zones 9 11, they can also be grown in large pots and brought indoors in cooler climates to enjoy their tropical appeal year-round.
Similar plants: Musa sp. 'Ornamental Group' (Ornamental bananas)
- Calathea musaica (Network Calathea)
- Ensete lasiocarpum (Chinese Yellow Banana)
- Musa acuminata (Banana)
- Musa coccinea (Scarlet Banana)
- Musa haekkinenii (Wild Red Banana)
- Musa sp. ''Truly Tiny'' (Dwarf Banana 'Truly Tiny')
- Musa sp. (Banana)
- Musa sumatrana (Blood Leaf Banana)
- Musa velutina (Hairy Banana)
- Musa x paradisiaca Ae Ae (Royal Variegated Banana)
Related Products: Musa sp. 'Ornamental Group' (Ornamental bananas)
Bordelon ornamental banana was first discovered in the Zone 8b Louisiana town of Bordelonville (near Alexandria). The 10-15' tall stalks are adorned with red-striped leaves that also feature an attractive red leaf back which is especially visible when the leaves unfurl. Based on trials around the country, M. Bordelon appears to be the hardiest of the red-striped varieties. If the growing point is protected in winter, M. Bordelon will flower and fruit, although fruits are seeded. It's cold-tolerant for a banana and can flower and fruit if protected in winter. Originally from Louisiana, it's a striking and resilient choice for Southern gardens and collectors alike. Excellent as a tropical accent or potted showpiece.
Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
Watch a short video: Red Leaves, Red Fruit, Real Wow Banana!
See Article about Red Banana.
Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
See photos of leaves:
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
See Article about Red leaf Banana.
Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster