String of Bananas Info
Native to Africa, string of bananas is a fast-growing plant with vines that ultimately reach lengths of at least 36 inches (90 cm.). The leaves are somewhat transparent, which allows light to shine through. The small flowers have a pleasant, cinnamon-like scent. String of bananas is suitable for growing outdoors in the warm climates of USDA plant hardiness zones 10 through 12. If you live in a cooler climate, however, you can grow string of bananas indoors. This exotic-looking plant is well suited for containers or hanging baskets. In fact, its cousin, string of pearls, is a commonly grown houseplant with similar care.
How to Grow a String of Bananas Plant
String of bananas plants are relatively easy to propagate by taking cuttings from a healthy, established plant. Set the cutting aside until the cut stem forms a callus – generally about three to seven days. Plant the stem in a container filled with coarse potting soil. Be sure the container has a drainage hole in the bottom, as string of bananas is likely to rot in soggy, poorly-drained soil. Keep the plant lightly moist, but never soggy, until healthy new growth indicates that the cutting has successfully rooted.
String of Bananas Plant Care
Although outdoor string of pearls plants need partial shade, indoor plants benefit from bright sunlight. However, avoid intense afternoon sunlight during the summer months. String of pearls is drought tolerant. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, but don’t allow it to remain bone dry. String of pearls generally requires no fertilizer. If growth appears poor, however, provide a dilute solution of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Never feed the plant during the winter months. String of bananas enters a period of dormancy during the winter. Water less frequently during this time, providing just enough moisture to keep the plant from becoming bone dry.
