How to grow a banana shrub bonsai? A complete care guide

The banana shrub (Michelia figo) is an evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and flowers that have a banana-like fragrance. When in bloom, the flowers hang downward half-open, looking both shy and as if smiling without smiling, which makes them endearing. The banana shrub is native to the southern provinces and regions of South China, and it grows wild in Dinghu Mountain, Guangdong, where it is found on shady slopes in mixed woods. The picture shows a potted banana shrub.

1. Environmental benefits

The banana shrub can absorb chlorine gas. The flowers release volatile aromatic oils that can inhibit Mycobacterium tuberculosis and pneumococcus [Jishan Huayao].

2. Care guide

(1) Light The banana shrub likes partial shade and fears intense direct sun. It likes a warm, humid climate and is relatively cold-tolerant. Indoors, potted plants can be placed in a bright area with plenty of scattered light. In summer, shade it appropriately to avoid direct strong light.

(2) Temperature In winter, indoor room temperature should be kept at 5-15°C. If the temperature is too low, it is prone to cold damage. After it suffers cold, you can cover the pot with a plastic bag and place it in a sunny indoor area for care.

(3) Watering Normally keep the potting soil moist, but never overly wet. Because its roots are mostly fleshy, too much watering or waterlogging after rain can cause root rot, so in rainy seasons pay attention to controlling humidity.

(4) Fertilizing The banana shrub likes fertilizer. During the growing season (April-September), apply fertilizer about once every 15 days. Stop fertilizing during the flowering period and after October. If the leaves are found not to be bright and deep green, apply one dose of fertilizer water.

(5) Soil The banana shrub likes deep, fertile, slightly acidic soil. For potting soil, mix 6 parts leaf mold with 2 parts garden soil and 2 parts yellow sand to make the growing medium.

(6) Propagation The banana shrub is commonly propagated by cuttings and layering.

① Cuttings. After the flowers fade, take softwood cuttings. Cut 8-10 cm long branches, keep the upper leaves, insert them into the potting soil, keep the soil moist, and shade them. They root about 4 months after insertion.

② Layering. Carry out air layering during the plum rain season; they root in about 2 months.

② Layering. The banana shrub is a small to medium-sized indoor potted flowering plant, suitable for placing in the living room or bathroom.