Musa Velutina (Pink Banana)
| Scientific Name | Musa velutina |
|---|---|
| Mature Height | 4-6 feet |
| USDA Zones | 7b-11 |
| Fruit | Yes — small, pink, ornamental; technically edible but very seedy |
| Cold Hardy | Moderate — rhizome hardy to about 0°F with mulch |
| Type | Ornamental |
Musa Velutina, the Pink Banana, is a small, striking species that produces bright pink fruit that peels back when ripe, revealing white, seedy flesh. The fruit is mildly sweet but full of hard black seeds, so it is primarily ornamental. What makes Velutina special is that it flowers and fruits readily — even in its first year — which most bananas do not. It is also surprisingly cold-hardy for a banana that actually fruits.
Growing Conditions
Full sun to partial shade. Small enough for containers and indoor growing. The rhizome is hardy to about 0°F with mulch protection in cold climates. One of the few bananas that can be successfully grown from seed — seeds germinate relatively quickly and plants can flower within a year.
Propagation
Seed is the most common method, which is unusual for bananas. Also spreads by pups.
Common Issues
Few serious issues. Spider mites when grown indoors.