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Banana Plant
BeginnerNymphoides aquatica
A unique plant with banana-bunch-like tubers. Charming when producing floating leaves.
About
Nymphoides aquatica is a perennial aquatic plant in the family Menyanthaceae, native to the southeastern United States, commonly known as the Banana Plant. Its most distinctive feature is the cluster of green banana-shaped tubers (nutrient-storing roots) arranged at the base, allowing it to establish simply by placing it on the substrate. The tubers serve as a nutrient reservoir, so the plant is typically positioned with the tubers half-exposed rather than buried. It extends long stems producing heart-shaped floating leaves at the water surface, but can be enjoyed as a submerged plant before it reaches the surface. Floating leaves should be trimmed regularly if they overly cover the surface. A beginner-friendly plant that grows in low to medium light without CO2, it also enjoys collector popularity for its unique appearance.
Size of the Banana Plant
The Banana Plant grows to 5-15cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Southeastern United States
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
5-15cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Root tabs
Growing Tips
Lighting
A beginner-friendly plant that grows in low to medium light. Strong lighting is unnecessary; standard equipment is enough.
CO2 & Fertilizer
It grows without CO2. Substrate fertilizer placed near the tubers lets it grow while storing nutrients in them.
Substrate & Attachment
Do not bury it; simply set the banana-shaped tubers on the substrate half exposed and it will take hold.
Growth
Produces floating leaves, can be trimmed
Cautions
Burying the tubers too deep damages them, so always leave half exposed. Until the stems reach the surface you can enjoy it as a submersed plant.
Banana Plant FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Banana Plant?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Banana Plant get?
The mature size of Banana Plant is 5-15cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Banana Plant?
Banana Plant: watering & fertilizer — Root tabs. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Banana Plant?
The price of Banana Plant varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (Invasive Species Act) / CITES Appendix II listed plant taxa (family and genus level)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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