I love bananas. The ones we buy in the store that are picked green and ripened in rooms with ethylene gas are a far cry from those that ripen on the plant. There is a banana plantation on the coast in Southern California which has many delicious varieties if you ever get a chance to visit. I did visit a plantation in Israel when I was working there in the late 80's. 

Last summer I planted a cold tolerant variety that I bought at Lowes. It has done very well in the protection of the house. I have another which is from a Gardner in Modesto who claims it is very cold tolerant. 

Last week I pruned the big plant. I read that each plant must has s grandmother, mother and baby. Three stems are various stages of growth. I have yet to see a flower stem but this should appear this fall with a possible first crop next year. I will keep you posted.