Nature · A drawing idea for little artists
How to draw a banana tree: a segmented trunk and radiating leaves
Repeat the small leaf shape vertically and stack it into a trunk.
For iPad & iPhone · In-app purchases
These 3 pictures show selected moments from the drawing. For every step in between and a guide on your canvas, get the full lesson in LittlePaper.
What you will learn
Practice this visual check: First draw a long arc radiating from the top of the tree to the left and right, and then close the wide leaves along the arc.
Shapes and proportions
Vertically repeat the shape of small leaves and stack them into a trunk. The top of the trunk radiates a long arc to the left and right, closing the outline of the large leaves along the arc, and then hanging banana bunches on one side.
A common mistake
The banana leaves are all facing one direction, and the crown will be tilted to one side.
How to fix it
First draw a long arc radiating from the top of the tree to the left and right, and then close the wide leaves along the arc.
These three images are key-stage previews: the starting shape, the completed outline, and a new crayon color study. Follow the complete drawing sequence in LittlePaper. On paper, leave room around the first shape for the parts added later.
A few things to start with
Paper, pencil or black drawing pen, eraser, and crayons or colored pencils for color matching for this lesson.
A little peek at the drawing
1 / 3
Selected stages · The complete drawing sequence is in the app.
Shapes, character & color
A look at the drawing stages.
Try the shape tips below on paper. When you’re ready to draw along with each small step, continue in LittlePaper.
- 01Selected stage
Position the basic shape first
Vertically repeat the shape of small leaves and stack them into a trunk. Observe the position of the starting shape on the paper, leaving space for subsequent outlines and additional components.
Position the basic shape first · Preview image 1 of 3 - 02Selected stage
Connect profiles and arrange parts
The top of the tree trunk radiates a long arc to the left and right, closes the outline of the large leaves along the arc, and then hangs a bunch of bananas on one side. First draw a long radiating arc from the top of the tree to the left and right, and then close the wide leaves along the arc.
Connect profiles and arrange parts · Preview image 2 of 3 - 03Selected stage
Select the color of the part to complete the crayon draft
Banana leaves are green, veins are light green, trunks are golden brown, and bananas are creamy yellow. Apply the color first with light pressure, leaving the black outline, and then compare pairs of parts using the same color.
Select the color of the part to complete the crayon draft · Preview image 3 of 3
The next little step is yours
Like the idea?
Let’s make it together.
Open the “How to Draw a Banana Tree” drawing idea in LittlePaper for the complete sequence. Follow a guide, pause when you need, and add your own colors.
Download LittlePaper from the App Store, then open the drawing idea inside the app.
Every step, at your pace.
See the full drawing sequence. Pause, replay, and take another look whenever a shape needs practice.
A guide where you draw.
Trace on the canvas, then try your own lines with a finger or Apple Pencil on a compatible iPad.
Make it yours. Keep the making.
Add crayon color, replay your creation, and give your picture a home in a digital 3D book.
