Banana 'Ensete Maurelli'

Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii', also known as a Red Banana, is a perennial cultivar in the Musaceae (banana) family originating from primarily Ethiopia, but found in East Africa, ranging from South Africa to Mozambique and Congo. With a maximum height of 10' when grown in temperate regions, it is smaller in height than other varieties.  It is also a difficult plant to successfully transplant, so placing in the ground during the summer months with the intention of moving indoors in the cooler months is not an option. Better to plant in a container that can be moved indoors when the temperatures begin to fall.  Its trunk is referred to as a stipe, which indicates that it resembles a stalk. The leaves that are produced along the stipe are long and broad. With varying shades ranging from green to purple to red, the foliage is the focal point of the plant. Fruits are about 1-3 inches in length and are edible. 

Sold Individually
Available in 10", 1 Gal, 5 Gal

This plant requires full sun to partial shade, thriving best with 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily to encourage vibrant red/ burgundy foliage. While it tolerates partial shade, excessive shade may reduce its color intensity. It prefers bright, indirect light when grown indoors.

This plant requires consistent moisture, demanding deep watering 2–3 times weekly during spring and summer, or daily for container-grown plants in high heat. They need well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Water consumption should be significantly reduced during winter dormancy.

Your plant needs food too! We recommend Espoma Tree Tone. 

Proper nutrition is important to the health of your plant and its longevity. To ensure your plant is getting the appropriate nutrition, use a fertilizer labelled for this plant type and apply according to the label.