Michelia figo 'Skinneriana' --Skinner's Hardy Banana Magnolia--

Often called "Banana Shrub, or "Skinner's Magnolia". Gorgeous blooming shrub with small, creamy flowers that smell like delicious banana desserts. Blooms spring and summer, grows up to 15' tall and wide if left to grow, and can be pruned and trained into smaller hedge or tree shapes. Skinner's is more vigorous in growth and longer flowering than the old-fashioned banana shrub, is very similar to the species except that it is larger in all its parts, fastest growth while young, slowing as it approaches its max size. Winter hardy and evergreen in central Texas - hardened off plants in the ground can easily take temperatures into the single digits for short periods with no apparent damage. Easy to grow and heat-loving, sun or partial shade (foliage will be healthiest with light sun protection in summer afternoons). Suitable for container and can be kept stable in container for years if desired as a patio plant so you can enjoy the delicious fragrance nearby!