Banana Trees in Dallas

Banana trees do well in Dallas. They should be cut down each winter but happily return in the spring.

Banana Tree, Holly Fern, Mahonia in early spring

This magnificent orange combination of banana trees, globe amaranthus and coleus can be found at the Dallas Arboretum.

Banana Tree with Variegated Tapioca which is a Texas SuperStar

To the left of the Banana Tree is variegated tapioca, a Texas Superstar! (More on variegated tapioca here.)

Banana Tree with Variegated Tapioca which is a Texas SuperStar

This planting at the Dallas Arboretum has an Asian feel.

Fall Banana Tree Lee Ann Torrans Dallas Texas

Planting banana trees in Dallas, Texas is absolutely possible — with a few climate-aware considerations. While bananas aren’t native to North Texas, many varieties can thrive with proper care and some winter protection. Here’s everything you need to know to successfully grow bananas in the Dallas area.

Climate Zone & Considerations

USDA Zone: Dallas is in Zone 8a–8b, which means winter lows can reach 10–20°F.
Banana plants are tropical to subtropical and don’t tolerate freezing temps without damage.
In Dallas, bananas are often treated as perennial root-hardy plants: the top dies back in winter, but the roots survive and regrow in spring if protected.

Best Banana Varieties for Dallas

Look for cold-tolerant or fast-growing varieties:

Musa basjoo (Hardy Banana):
Cold-hardy down to 0°F; produces small, inedible fruit but great for ornamental use.
Raja Puri:
Cold-tolerant and produces small, sweet bananas.
Orinoco (Horse Banana):
Good for cooking and fresh eating; tough and adaptable.
Dwarf Cavendish:
Needs more protection but can fruit well in containers or protected microclimates.

Planting Tips

When to Plant:

Late March to May is ideal, after all danger of frost has passed.

Location:

Full sun (6–8 hours) is essential for fruiting.
Choose a protected spot — near a south-facing wall or fence is ideal.

Soil:

Well-draining, rich in compost or organic matter.
Bananas are heavy feeders — amend the soil with composted manure or slow-release fertilizer.

Watering:

Bananas need consistent moisture, especially in summer.
Mulch well to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Winter Protection

In Dallas, winter survival depends on how well you protect the plant:

Cut back the top after the first frost turns leaves brown.
Mulch heavily (12–18″) around the base with straw, leaves, or compost.
Optionally, wrap the stalk in burlap or use a wire cage filled with leaves.
In severe winters, the plant may die back to the ground, but pups (shoots) will regrow from the base.

Container option:

Grow dwarf bananas in large pots and move them indoors or into a greenhouse during winter.

Variegate Tapioca

Container gardening

Variegated Tapioca (Manihot esculenta ‘Variegata’) is a striking ornamental plant celebrated for its bold, tropical foliage. Native to South America, this cultivar is particularly well-suited to Texas’s hot climate and has been recognized as a Texas Superstar® for its exceptional performance in the state’s diverse landscapes.

Botanical Profile

Common Names: Variegated Tapioca, Variegated Cassava, Variegated Yuca
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Growth Habit: Semi-woody perennial or annual (in cooler climates)
Size: Typically reaches 3–4 feet in height and up to 5 feet in width
Foliage: Deeply lobed leaves with creamy-yellow centers and green margins; new growth emerges with a reddish-pink hue
Stems: Bright red, adding to the plant’s ornamental appeal

Growing Conditions

Sunlight: Thrives in full sun; tolerates partial shade but with less vibrant foliage
Soil: Prefers well-drained soils; adaptable to a wide range of pH levels
Watering: Requires consistent moisture; avoid overwatering as it is not a swamp plant
Temperature: Growth is vigorous when night temperatures are consistently above 60°F; sensitive to temperatures below 50°F
Fertilization: Benefits from monthly applications of slow-release fertilizer to promote lush growth

Landscape Uses

Variegated Tapioca serves as an excellent focal point in gardens, containers, and landscape beds. Its vibrant foliage provides continuous visual interest throughout the growing season. The plant’s tolerance to heat and its adaptability to various soil types make it a valuable addition to Texas gardens.

Cautionary Notes

While Manihot esculenta is the source of edible cassava roots, the ‘Variegata’ cultivar is grown solely for ornamental purposes. All parts of the plant contain hydrocyanic acid compounds and should not be consumed. The plant’s unpalatable nature generally deters pets and wildlife from ingestion.

For gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, heat-tolerant plant with striking foliage, Variegated Tapioca is an outstanding choice. Its recognition as a Texas Superstar® underscores its reliability and ornamental value in the state’s challenging growing conditions.