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Can You Grow Banana in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Cold-hardy banana varieties grow here as ornamentals — fruit production requires a very warm site.

Plant zones

8a–11b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Banana

Bananas are fast-growing tropical plants that can add dramatic tropical look even in temperate gardens.

In Zone 8-9 cold-hardy varieties like Musa basjoo can survive winters with heavy mulch. In colder zones grow in containers and bring indoors. Fruit production requires Zone 9+ and a long warm season.

Full banana growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Banana in California?

Cold-hardy banana varieties grow here as ornamentals — fruit production requires a very warm site.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Bananas in California?

See the planting guide for Banana — timing depends on your exact frost date.