Ice Cream Banana

Ice Cream Banana

The Ice Cream banana is one we’ve been trying to get a hold of for years! We’re so excited to finally have a good crop of them to plant out and have here at the nursery. Also known as the Blue Java banana for the uniquely blue color the bananas have before they’re fully ripe. This variety is more popularly known as the Ice Cream banana for its fluffy, creamy texture that’s similar to ice cream. Makes a delicious frozen banana puree, but you’ll likely eat them all fresh right off the plant. Bananas fruit in their second year typically so the plant must make it through the winter without too much damage in order to flower and fruit. We’re crossing our fingers that these will be hardy in the ground here but let us know your experiences with them.

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Latin Name:  Musa acuminata × balbisiana ‘Blue Java’
Site and Soil: likes 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Hardiness: We’ve heard reports down to 15º F., but we’re guessing somewhere around 20º F. might be a safer bet. Be sure to protect it overwinter if cold temperatures are coming your way.
Bearing Age: 2 years after planting
Size at Maturity: 6-10 ft. in height.
Taste: Sweet, fluffy, creamy texture
Fruit Skin: Blue-green when ripening, yellow when ripe.
Pests & Diseases: not bothered by pests or diseases.
USDA Zone: 8b/9a