Musella Banana Plants
Golden Lotus Banana (Musella lasiocarpa)
Musella banana plants are best known as the Golden Lotus Banana, grown more for their unusual flowers than for any fruit.
With only two recognised species—Musella lasiocarpa and Musella splendida—this small genus sits within the banana family (Musaceae). Native to South East Asia, they’re sometimes referred to as the Chinese dwarf banana.
While related to more familiar genera like Musa and Ensete, Musella are quite different in both form and use.
Key Species
Musella lasiocarpa
The most commonly grown species, Musella lasiocarpa is prized for its striking golden-yellow flower, often described as resembling a lotus.
It’s a compact, cold-tolerant “dwarf banana” that typically grows to around 1.5–2 metres in height.
One of its standout features is the long-lasting flower, which can persist for 6 months or more. The display is at its best in the first few months, when the colour is brightest and most defined.
It produces suckers readily, making it relatively easy to propagate, and can also be grown from seed.
Musella splendida
Less commonly seen, Musella splendida is native to Vietnam and is sometimes referred to as Choi Canh.
It was only formally recorded in 2002, making it a relatively recent addition to cultivation. Like its relative, it features a bright yellow terminal flower, though it is not widely available—particularly in Australia.
Background and Origins
Musella lasiocarpa is believed to originate from the Kunming region of China, where it has been cultivated historically—even used as pig fodder in some areas.
There are also associations with Buddhist culture, where the plant is sometimes regarded as sacred and appears in temple plantings and imagery.
Growing Musella Banana Plants
Musella are surprisingly adaptable and can be grown in a range of garden settings with the right conditions.
Position
Full sun to part shade. A warm, sheltered position will give the best results.
Soil
Well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
Watering
Regular watering during active growth, though avoid waterlogged soil.
Climate
More cold-tolerant than many bananas, but still benefits from protection from heavy frost.
Containers
Well suited to pots, especially in cooler climates where they can be moved or protected during winter.
Growth Habit
Unlike traditional bananas, Musella has a more compact, upright growth habit, making it suitable for smaller gardens.
It forms clumps over time through suckering, and the foliage provides a lush, tropical feel even when not in flower.
Flowering
The flower is the main attraction.
Appearing as a bold, upright, golden-yellow cone, it emerges prominently and can last for many months. Unlike typical bananas, the flower often appears before or alongside the foliage, adding to its visual impact.
Availability
Musella plants—particularly Musella splendida—are not widely available in Australia and are usually found through specialist growers or collectors in Queensland.
Quick Reference
Botanical Name – Musella lasiocarpa
Common Name – Golden Lotus Banana / Chinese Dwarf Banana
Height – 1.5–2 m
Position – Full sun to part shade
Soil – Well-drained, enriched with organic matter
Water Requirements – Moderate
Climate – Warm temperate to subtropical, frost tolerant with protection
Flower – Bright yellow, lotus-like, long-lasting
Propagation – Suckers or seed
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