Identification

• Bananas can only grow in locations with a warm climate year round. If they are exposed to freezing temperatures or frost, the leaves and stems of the plant will turn brown. On the other hand, banana leaves can scorch if temperatures get too hot.
  
  

Disease

• Panama disease, also known as banana wilt, is a fungal disease that attacks banana plants and causes leaves to turn brown. The disease affects older leaves first and then attacks younger leaves. It is typically fatal for the tree.
  
  

Considerations

• Insect infestations or elemental damage can also cause the leaves of your banana tree to turn brown. If you cannot figure out the cause of the damage, check with your local University extension.