The Banana Magnolia Shrub (Magnolia figo) is a magnolia species also known as a banana shrub, whose common name refers to the intense banana-like fragrance of its waxy, cup-shaped creamy yellow flowers, which are edged in purple and look like miniature Southern Magnolia blooms. Sometimes the sweet smell of the flowers is also compared to ripe cantaloupe.  The Banana Magnolia Shrub also needs full sunlight to thrive. Unlike with other shrubs, expect full flowering in mid- to late spring even when the plant is still young. The Banana Magnolia Shrub is a drought-resistant evergreen, with multiple stems and thick, glossy dark green leaves like magnolia that turn yellow-green in the winter. It can grow up to 6-15 feet in height, and 6-8 feet in width.

• Size: Typically 6-10 feet tall and wide, but can grow larger over time
• Leaves: Glossy, oblong, evergreen, dark green, 3-5 inches long
• Flowers: Creamy yellow, cup-shaped, fragrant (banana scent), 1.5 inches in diameter, bloom from spring to summer
• Growth Rate: Medium, with slower growth after reaching 10 feet
• Light: Full sun to part shade, tolerates full sun but may have yellow-green leaves