Musa balbisiana 'Gigantea,' commonly known as giant wild banana or King Kong, is an impressive and robust banana variety with striking features. This banana plant typically grows into a large and imposing herbaceous shrub or tree, often reaching towering heights of 15 to 30 feet (4.5 to 9 meters). Its most notable characteristic is its massive leaves, which can measure up to 10 feet (3 meters) in length and over 2 feet (0.6 meters) in width, giving the plant a truly majestic presence. The leaves are rich green and deeply veined, adding a lush and tropical feel to any landscape. While Musa balbisiana 'Gigantea' does produce small and inedible bananas, it is primarily grown for its immense and awe-inspiring foliage, making it a favored choice for large tropical and botanical gardens. The sheer scale of this banana variety, along with its bold, striking appearance, contributes to a sense of tropical grandeur in gardens and landscapes where it thrives.  Zones 9-11.
Germination
To germinate Musa balbisiana, Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 48 hours to soften their hard coats. After soaking, plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix in pots or a seed tray, covering them with about half an inch (1.25 cm) of soil. Maintain a consistently warm and humid environment, ideally with temperatures around 80-85°F (27-29°C), and ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged. You can create a mini greenhouse effect by covering the pots or trays with plastic wrap or a clear plastic lid to maintain humidity. Germination can be slow and erratic, taking several weeks to a few months. Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots.Â
