Description
Species Background
Native to the southeastern United States, the banana plant comes from slow, warm freshwater habitats like ponds, marsh edges, and lazy backwaters. It is an aquatic lily relative, famous for its odd banana shaped tubers, which are storage organs rather than true roots. In the wild, these tubers help the plant ride out dry spells and fluctuating water levels.
Growth Behavior
This is a rooted rosette plant that sends leaves upward from a central crown. Early growth stays low and compact. Once settled, it often produces long stems that reach the surface, forming floating lily pads. It feeds primarily from the substrate but also pulls nutrients from the water column.
Size and Growth Form
• Submerged leaves: 4 to 8 inches tall
• Floating stems: up to 12 to 20 inches depending on tank depth
• Structure: open rosette with long petioles
Fish often rest beneath the floating leaves, and shrimp graze around the tubers and leaf bases.
Aquascaping Tip
Use as a midground accent in open layouts where its unusual tubers remain partially visible and the surface leaves can soften overhead light.
Water Parameters
• Temperature: 72–82°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• GH: 3–12
• KH: 2–8
This species tolerates a wide range due to long-term cultivation in aquariums and outdoor ponds.
Light Requirements
Low to medium.
Low light keeps it compact and mostly submerged. Higher light encourages rapid growth and surface leaves.
COâ‚‚ Requirements
Not required.
COâ‚‚ speeds growth and leaf size, but the plant does fine without it.
Nutrient Requirements
Primarily a root feeder. A nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs will significantly improve vigor and leaf production.
Tank Placement
Midground to background.
Works especially well in tanks with open surface space where floating leaves are welcome.
Why Aquarists Keep It
It offers a unique look, gentle shade, and natural surface cover that reduces fish stress and adds a calm, pond-like feel to the aquarium.
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