|
|
< < Return to List of Columns
To print this article, use the
Print feature in your web browser program
|
ENVIE FOR PLANT WITH CREAMY-YELLOW BLOOMS AND BANANA FRAGRANCE |
|
Published: April 11, 2002 |
|
QUESTION: I need your help to find a bush or tree, Im not really sure which. It blooms once a year, I think, and the blooms smell like bananas. I remember that as a child I would break open small creamy-yellow fragrant blooms and place them around the house. I would love to plant one in my yard.
ANSWER: Lots of gardeners who read your letter will feel nostalgic remembering the scent of banana shrub blossoms. Michelia figo is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows from eight to 15 feet tall and bears small, magnolia-like blossoms in spring. It is ideal for planting in entryways, corner plantings or near a window, because the ripe-banana scent is strongest in a warm, wind-free spot.
Call around to the local nurseries to locate a banana shrub. Plant in acidic, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. The plant grows slowly and needs no special care. It is a good candidate for limbing up into a small tree. Port Wine is a cultivar that has rose to maroon flowers.
Texas mountain laurel attracts attention
QUESTION: I have just noticed a small tree growing on Bendel Road that has lavender flowers that look like wisteria. Do you know what kind it is?
ANSWER: That lovely small tree (Sophora secundiflora) was planted by the former owner of the house from a seed brought from his mothers yard in New Orleans. As far as I know, it is the only one of its size in the area. The blossoms are strongly fragrant. The seeds are bright red and very hard, and must be nicked before planting in order to germinate. During the past few years, plants have been available from time to time from local nurseries and garden centers, and quite a number of area gardeners have planted them.
|
< < Return to List of Columns
|
