Ice Cream (Blue Java) Banana

Blue Java, better known as the Ice Cream Banana, is a tropical showstopper. Its signature silver-blue fruit ripens to pale yellow, revealing creamy white flesh with a flavor strikingly similar to vanilla ice cream. Originally from Southeast Asia and now popularized in Hawaii and Florida, this banana is as beautiful as it is delicious — and one of the few that can tolerate cold weather.

🌿 Plant Growth

• Fast-growing, reaching 12–18 ft tall

• Large, wide leaves with upright, wind-tolerant structure

• Begins fruiting 18–30 months after planting

• Thrives in full sun and rich, well-drained soil

🍌 Fruit Description

• Medium-sized bananas (7–9 inches) with frosted blue skin

• Ripens to yellow with custard-soft white flesh

• Flavor is sweet, mild, and vanilla-like — hence the name

• One bunch per stalk can weigh 40–60 lbs

• Excellent for fresh eating, smoothies, and frozen treats

❄️ Cold Tolerance

• Among the most cold-hardy bananas

• USDA Zones 8b–11

• Survives dips to ~20°F with protection — root system often regrows after frost

📅 Harvest Season

• Fruit matures 15–24 months from planting

• Takes about 4–5 months to ripen after flowering

💼 Ideal For

• Rare fruit collectors and tropical fruit enthusiasts

• Florida, Gulf Coast, South Texas, and Southern California growers

• Great for CSA programs, smoothie bars, farmers markets, and exotic fruit sales

• A beautiful and functional addition to permaculture landscapes or edible yards

🔒 Zill High Performance Notes

Our Ice Cream Bananas are grown from pups, not tissue culture, ensuring genetic integrity and vigorous performance. Each tree is Florida-hardened, robust, and ready for your grove or home orchard.