Musa velutina
TAXONOMY
FamilyMusaceae
GenusMusa
Zone9
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Musa velutina, commonly known as the Pink Banana, is a small, herbaceous tree native to the subtropical regions of Southeast Asia. It is known for its striking pink fruit and velvety leaves. The plant is part of the Musaceae family and thrives in warm, humid environments. It does not have a dormancy period and can produce fruit within a year under optimal conditions.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Pink Velvet Banana
Musa dasycarpa
Musa velutina var. variegata
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
GDD5,475
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Musa velutina requires bright, indirect light and should be kept in a warm, humid environment. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. It thrives in moderate temperatures and high humidity. Regular misting can help maintain the required humidity levels.Harvest
Musa velutina, commonly known as the pink banana, typically takes about a year from planting to harvest. The fruit is ready to harvest when the bananas turn a bright pink color and start to split open, revealing the white flesh inside. Harvesting should be done by cutting the entire bunch from the plant using a sharp knife or pruning shears. It is important to handle the fruit gently to avoid bruising. The plant prefers subtropical climates and requires well-drained soil and regular watering. After harvesting, the plant may produce another bunch, but it is often best to cut the plant back to encourage new growth.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite can provide the ideal growing medium. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter to support its nutrient needs.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support its rapid growth and fruit production. Reduce fertilization during the cooler months.Repotting
Repot Musa velutina every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Propagate Musa velutina through division or by planting its seeds. Division can be done during repotting by separating the offshoots from the main plant. Seeds should be sown in a warm, humid environment and kept moist until they germinate.Pruning
Prune the plant to remove dead or damaged leaves and to maintain its shape. Pruning can be done throughout the year as needed. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts.Toxicity
Musa velutina is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the fruit is not typically consumed due to its numerous seeds and fibrous texture.Additional
Musa velutina can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile addition to any garden or home. Ensure it receives adequate light and humidity to thrive. Regularly check for pests such as spider mites and aphids, and treat them promptly to prevent infestations.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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