For that "air of the tropics" nothing exceeds the look of a banana tree. The banana family is Musaceae, and is related to the heliconias and travelers palm. Banana is really not a "tree" but a herbaceous perennial. However, out of a hundred varieties only a couple are hardy in zone 8 of the south.

Banana trees fit in perfectly around swimming pools or near other bodies of water.

You can not over feed nor can you over water your banana plants, although good drainage is required. Water regularly during dry spells to maintain active growth. Mulch in winter.