Bananas and Elephant Ears “Up North”

Maybe it’s one of the few perks of climate change–but folks around the upper south are growing tropical plants outdoors a lot more than they used to.  And with good reason.

Banana plants make good and fast shadeBanana plants make good and fast shade

The tropical plants most used around our region seem to be elephant ears and banana plants.  Both are fast-growing moisture lovers that respond well to conditions here. Both my father and I have had banana plants that blossomed and produced fruit, though the season was too short for the fruit to truly ripen.

Tropical plants grow fast!
Tropical plants grow fast!

Both banana plants and elephant ears make good and fast shade for areas that tend to catch hot afternoon rays, like a porch or patio.  They aren’t extremely picky about soil types as long as they get enough moisture. 

Looking good against a fence

Looking good against a fence

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A banana plant blooms in Ky.
A banana plant blooms in Ky.

Though these plants are large and showy, and look good along a porch or patio, they also help to accent shady areas of a garden, or along fences.  Give them a try!

Banana fruit emerging from the blossom
Banana fruit emerging from the blossom
© Wade Kingston

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