PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Thrives in full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal wind and light shade conditions
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–10 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C; prefers temperate to warm climates; avoid prolonged temperatures above 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Long, sword-shaped, arching leaves (60–120 cm) in dense rosettes atop mature stems
- Flower: Fragrant small white flowers in drooping panicles up to 1 m long
- Stem: Thick, fibrous trunk with peeling, brownish, cork-like bark
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth period
Fertilization
Apply balanced, diluted fertilizer once monthly. Cease fertilizing in autumn and winter when growth slows
Banana peel tea：Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 5 L of water for 3 days; strain and use to water the base of the plant to avoid leaf burnPruning
- Remove dead or yellowing leaves from the base of leaf rosettes to maintain appearance
- Trim spent flower panicles after blooming to redirect energy to new growth
- Thin overcrowded stems in early spring to improve airflow and shape the plant
- Cut back damaged or frost-bitten stems to healthy wood in late winter to encourage new shoots
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-classified non-toxic; no adverse effects reported for cats
Humans: No known toxic effects for humans; non-irritating to skin or mouth
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: In Māori culture, used for food (young leaf shoots), fiber for weaving, and medicinal purposes
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; cut foliage for floral arrangements and event decor
