Michelia gracipes (Banana Shrub)

How to grow a Michelia gracipes hedge

The Michelia gracipes hedge spacing is generally 50 cm between the plants. If you want the hedge to fill in more quickly, you can reduce the spacing to 40 cm. However, going wider than 50 cm will have two effects. The first is that the gap between the plants at the base will be harder to fill in, and this can cause frustration. The second is that the plants will tend to grow wider rather than upward. At a closer spacing, the plants compete for light, and in doing so, they push each other upwards. Therefore, The Plant Company recommends a spacing of 40-50 cm to achieve an impressive hedge. If large grade plants (25L pot size or larger) are purchased, the spacing can be increased to 1 m apart, as the plants have been carefully manicured to be already bushy. Start trimming the sides of the hedge once active growth starts to achieve a denser hedge.

Michelia gracipes care

Michelia gracipes flourishes in full sun to partial shade. It prefers moist but well-drained soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter, or humus. While it can tolerate neutral to slightly alkaline soils, it ideally prefers somewhat acidic conditions. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, and this cannot be emphasised enough. While it can handle light frosts, young plants should be protected in colder regions. In areas with cold, drying winds, shelter is recommended. Feed it with tree fertiliser in early spring before new growth begins. If shaping is needed, it's best to prune after flowering to avoid removing the current season's blooms, as it flowers from late winter to early summer. Generally, this variety is relatively pest and disease-free. However, keep an eye out for scale insects and treat with an insecticide if levels are high.

Where can I buy a Michelia gracipes standard?

Standard Michelia gracipes plants are a speciality for some of our wholesalers, and they can come in different standard heights. If you can’t find the size or standard height you are after in our pricing table above, just email us at shop@theplantcompany.co.nz, and the team will endeavour to fill your needs with high-quality plants.

Michelia gracipes (Banana Shrub) for sale

The Plant Company has the best Michelia gracipes plants for sale in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants, and our logistics team packs them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us take care of your Banana Shrub needs and impress you with both our products and services!

When is the best time for planting Michelia gracipes?

The best time to plant Michelia gracipes is during the dormant season, which spans from autumn to spring. However, the optimal timing within this period is spring, as the warming soil encourages better root establishment. This allows the young tree to settle in well before the heat of summer arrives. You can still plant in summer, provided careful attention is paid to watering.