Unique foreground plant with banana-shaped tubers. Easy to care for and ideal for low-light tanks and nano aquascapes.
$8.99
In stock
The Banana Plant is one of the most unusual and eye-catching aquarium species, instantly recognizable by its thick tuber-like roots that resemble a small cluster of bananas. Native to slow-moving waters in North America, it grows as a rosette plant and sends up broad, lily-like leaves that can remain submerged or reach the surface. Aquarists prize it for its distinctive appearance and the striking contrast it brings to aquascapes.
Each plant begins with its signature tubers anchored into the substrate. Once established, new leaves emerge from the base, growing short and compact in aquariums with strong light, or stretching toward the surface in lower light conditions. Given space and stability, Banana Plants adapt easily and often become a centerpiece in smaller tanks.
Quick Care Guide:
Type: Rosette plant for foreground or midground placement
Light Needs: Low to medium, stronger light keeps leaves compact
CO₂: Not required
Substrate: Plant tubers partially in substrate, leaving tops exposed
Water Range: GH 2–12, KH 2–8, pH 6.0–7.8
Growth Habit: Compact rosette with floating or submerged leaves
Good candidate for terrarium and paludarium use
Beginner-friendly: Hardy, adaptable, and thrives without CO₂ — an excellent choice for new aquarists
Quick tip: Never bury the banana-shaped tubers completely — they must remain partly exposed to stay healthy
Few plants bring as much character to an aquarium as the Banana Plant. Its unique form draws the eye immediately, whether used as a quirky accent in a community tank or as a natural centerpiece in a planted layout.
Q: Will the Banana Plant grow floating leaves like a lily?
A: Yes, if given time and moderate lighting, it can send long stems to the surface with floating leaves.
Q: How should I plant the tubers?
A: Place them partly in the substrate, but keep the top of the tubers exposed. Fully burying them will cause rot.
Q: Does it need CO₂?
A: No — it grows well in low-tech tanks, though stronger light and good water quality help it thrive.
Q: Can it be used in terrariums or paludariums?
A: Yes — it does well in high-humidity environments with its tubers anchored in moist substrate and leaves growing upward.
The Banana Plant is native to the southeastern United States, especially in Florida wetlands, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. It grows in shallow water with muddy or sandy bottoms, where its swollen tubers store nutrients and keep it anchored during seasonal changes. The rosette produces broad, round leaves that can float or remain submerged, depending on water depth and light availability.
In the aquarium hobby, it has been popular since the early 20th century as both a curiosity and a hardy, adaptable plant. Its quirky “banana” roots make it instantly recognizable, and its ability to thrive without CO₂ has kept it a favorite for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. Beyond aquariums, it is also used in paludariums and aquatic terrariums, where it brings the same natural charm to semi-aquatic setups.
