PLANT OF THE WEEK Variegated Banana

Botanical name: Musa "Variegated Hawaiian"
Attributes: When Hawaii was a kingdom, this rare plant was sacred to the Royal Family. Only the Royal Family could grow or eat the fruit. Leaves are a kaleidoscopic pattern of green, medium green and creamy white with linear white stripes on the stem. Fruit is usually cooked but can be eaten from the bunch, which is also white striped. It loves heat, humidity and lots of water.
Bloom color: Not grown for its flowers, which are insignificant.
Culture: Buy a healthy plant from a mail-order company that specializes in rare bananas. Only one size may be available, and there may be a waiting list. Place in part sun in a container with fertile, humus-rich soil; water regularly to keep moist, and fertilize every two weeks with a 20-10-20 water-soluble solution. Or plant outdoors in summer in a bed with part shade. Water two times each week when it is hot, and feed monthly. Dig up the plant when night temperatures reach the low 50s and grow indoors by placing in a bright, sunny spot. Bananas also can be forced into dormancy by holding back water and placing in a cool basement until spring.
Landscaping tips: Plant bananas with hibiscus, elephant ears, palms, dracenas and Cannas for a heat-loving display that lends a jungle effect.
Cost: About $200 from specialty nurseries or mail-order catalogs. See a large, rare variegated banana at Powell Gardens' Visitor Education Center.
Source: Powell Gardens (www.powellgardens.org)