Musa sikkimensis, commonly known as the Darjeeling banana or Himalayan banana, originates from the foothills of the eastern Himalayas in India and Bhutan. It is one of the hardiest banana species, admired for its broad green leaves often flushed with red or bronze tones. During warm seasons, it produces striking, upright flower spikes followed by small, inedible fruit. Its tropical appearance makes it a popular ornamental plant in temperate and exotic-style gardens worldwide.
| KEY PLANT INFORMATION | |
|---|---|
| Family: | Musaceae |
| Plant Type: | Herbaceous Perennial |
| Plant Colours: | Green leaves, red midribs |
| Flowering period: | Summer to early autumn |
| Fragrance: | Mild or none |
| Mature Height: | 400–600 cm (13–20 ft) |
| Light Requirements: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water Requirements: | Regular, consistently moist soil |
| Cold Hardiness: | –7 °C (19 °F) |
| Difficulty: | Moderate |
Plant Type
Large herbaceous perennial
Musa sikkimensis is a perennial, rhizomatous herbaceous plant belonging to the banana family (Musaceae). Though it resembles a tree, it technically forms pseudostems made of tightly packed leaf bases rather than true woody trunks. It is grown primarily as an ornamental banana for its bold foliage, rapid growth, and strong architectural presence in garden landscapes.
Mature Height
400–600 cm tall (approximately 13–20 feet)
Musa sikkimensis can reach 400–600 cm tall (approximately 13–20 feet) under ideal conditions. Its large, paddle-shaped leaves can grow over 2 meters long, creating a lush, tropical canopy effect. In sheltered gardens or conservatories, it achieves its full height quickly during the growing season, forming a striking vertical accent.
Light Requirements
Full sun to partial shade
This banana species prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives best in bright, warm locations with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In hot climates, light shade during the hottest part of the day helps prevent leaf scorch. Shelter from strong winds is recommended to protect its large, fragile leaves.
Water Requirements
Moderate
Musa sikkimensis requires consistently moist, fertile soil with good drainage. It appreciates regular watering, especially in warm or windy conditions, as its large leaves transpire heavily. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, but do not allow water to stagnate. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Cold Hardiness
-6°C (21°F)
Musa sikkimensis is among the most cold-tolerant bananas, hardy down to about -6°C (21°F), corresponding to USDA Zones 7–10. In colder regions, the top growth may die back after frost, but the rhizome often survives with mulch protection, regrowing vigorously in spring once temperatures rise above freezing.
Propagation tips
Propagation is best achieved through division of the rhizome or by separating suckers (pups) from the parent plant. Each division should include a healthy section of root and a growing shoot. Pups can be potted in moist, well-drained soil and kept warm until established. Seed propagation is possible but slow and variable.
