Banana Shrub - Magnolia figo
Best fragrant shrub for adding an exotic touch to any landscape.
The Banana Shrub, scientifically known as Magnolia figo, is an evergreen shrub celebrated for its large, sweet-smelling flowers that evoke the scent of banana candy. These blooms feature creamy yellow petals with maroon edges and can reach up to 1.5 inches in diameter. It's versatile, suitable for both landscape planting and container gardening. This plant thrives in full to part sun and prefers soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. It is well-suited for USDA Grow Zones 8-11 and is considered pet-friendly.
$23.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
925
/ 3331
#925 in Bushes & Shrubs
Price vs Category Average
-39%
Below average
Mature Height
68
/ to feet
Who it's for
- Gardeners desiring a distinctive, aromatic plant for their outdoor living areas.
- Homeowners seeking year-round greenery and structural beauty in their landscape.
- Enthusiasts looking for a versatile shrub that responds well to shaping.
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in colder zones needing robust, frost-tolerant landscaping choices.
- Individuals with limited space or those preferring naturally compact plants.
- Plant lovers prioritizing large, showy blooms over understated, aromatic flowers.
Performance breakdown
Fragrance Intensity
Distinctive banana candy aroma provides an unmatched sensory experience in gardens.
Container Versatility
Compact growth habit makes it an ideal candidate for patio pots.
Pet Safety
Non-toxic foliage offers peace of mind for households with curious pets.
Climate Adaptability
Strict zone requirements limit outdoor planting to warmer southern regions.
Maintenance Ease
Consistent moisture needs require a disciplined watering routine for optimal health.
Visual Appeal
Glossy evergreen leaves provide year-round structure and elegant floral accents.
Key Specs
Mature Height
6 to 8 feet
Light
Full to part sun
Soil
Keep moist but not soggy
USDA Grow Zones
8-11
Water Requirements
Medium
Pet Friendly
Yes
Features
- Sweet Banana-like Fragrance
- Evergreen Foliage
- Suitable for Containers
- Pet-Friendly
- Attracts with Scent
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Banana Shrub for its truly unique and delightful fragrance, often described as a sweet banana candy scent that adds a comforting, exotic touch to any garden. Many reviewers highlight the excellent quality of the plants received, noting their healthy appearance and robust growth shortly after planting. The plant's ability to thrive and produce its distinctive aroma reliably makes it a cherished addition, offering a wonderful sensory experience and proving to be a worthwhile investment for garden enthusiasts seeking something special.
Know before you buy
Yes, the flowers produce a distinct, sweet fragrance that many people compare to banana candy or bubblegum. The scent is most noticeable when the plant is in bloom.
Absolutely. Magnolia figo is well-suited for container gardening, making it a great choice for patios or balconies as long as the pot has adequate drainage.
Yes, the Banana Shrub is considered pet-friendly, so you don't have to worry about toxicity if your cat or dog happens to brush against it.
This plant thrives in USDA zones 8 through 11. If you live in a colder climate, you will need to bring the container indoors during the winter to protect it from frost.
It performs best in full to part sun. Providing at least a few hours of direct sunlight daily will help encourage the most prolific flowering.
When planted in the ground, you can expect it to reach a mature height of 6 to 8 feet. If kept in a container, its growth will be more restricted by the size of the pot.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$24