How do I care for my Dwarf Cavendish Banana plant?

This August our pet-friendly indoor plant of the month is the Dwarf Cavendish Banana plant polybotrya. So easy to grow and an absolute thrill to watch the leaves unfurl from tightly coiled cylinders to huge exotic leaves. Don't worry if any of the leaves tear as they quickly produce new ones. Snip off any damaged leaves no lower than the bottom of the leaf.

Native habitat

Musa Acuminata 'Tropicana' also know as 'Dwarf Cavendish Banana' are native to South East Asia.

Light and position in the home

The Banana plant enjoys a bright sunny spot and can tolerate full sun or part shade. Keep it away from draughty places and if placing outside in the warmer months shelter from the wind as the leaves can tear easily.

Flowers and foliage

Large paddle-shaped leaves grow symmetrically on this compact mini banana and give it its exotic look. Maroon-purple patterns appear on young plants. At maturity the plant can produce small edible bananas.

Watering and humidity

This one loves a drink so water generously especially in the summer. When the top dusting of soil is slightly dry then it's time to water.

Temperature

Enjoys warm temperatures somewhere between  18 - 27 degrees Celsius and will tolerate as low as 10 degrees Celsius in winter. If your plant has been sat on a balcony or terrace over the summer bring it inside when temperatures drop as it is not frost hardy.

Did you know?

The banana plant has been grown indoors since the Victorian times, where they were proudly displayed in their humid, warm and sunny conservatories.

***

If you like the look of our Dwarf Cavendish Banana plant and want to get your hands on one of these, you can get yours here.