Red Abyssinian Banana Tree – Live Plants in 6 Inch Grower’s Pots – Ensete Maurelii – Ornamental Fruit Tree for The Patio and Garden

Botanically known as Ensete Ventricosum [en-SET-ee, ven-tre-KO-sum], Ensete Maurelii [en-SET-ee, mor-REE-lee] is an herbaceous perennial and belongs to the flowering plant family Musaceae (banana plant). This banana-like perennial has large paddle-shaped leaves that range in color from deep claret brown to red-purple to pale green, produced from the center of the plant, with thick, bright red midribs beneath. White flowers are borne in inflorescences 3 to 4 feet long. Fruits are banana-like but dry and unpalatable. Native to the tropical and subtropical forests of Africa, bananas are large herbaceous plants that die back in winter in frosty areas. Grow outdoors in rich soil in a sheltered area. Lift plants before first frost, cut back long roots, and reduce top-growth to the newest two or three leaves. It is best grown in full sun, with some shade in the hotter portion of the day. Moist soil is a must. However, don’t overwater. Locate in a site where the plant receives some protection from strong winds that can damage the leaves. Courtyards, atriums, and walled gardens are ideal.