These ornamental banana plants have graceful, broad leaves that add a tropical, colorful touch to the landscape. Use them as container plants to add a lush look to a porch or lanai. The red-tinged leaves make for a fun pop of color in the garden, making it a perfect focal point for a garden with a colorful, tropical theme. The more sun the plant gets, the redder the leaves will become.
Plant these tropical beauties in the landscape in zones 10 and above. If planted in zone 9, where frosts are likely, the leaves will likely burn. If you plant them further north, they would be good seasonal plants. Plant them in containers if you live further north and want to keep them past the warm season. Ornamental banana plants love lots of sun, moisture, and fertilizer. To ensure optimum growing conditions, plant in an area with good drainage. A slow-release fertilizer high in nitrogen is ideal. Start fertilizing in the spring. The last dose of fertilizer should be in early November.
Note: These plants are grown for decorative purposes and are not intended for human or animal consumption
FAST FACTS
Outstanding Features: Adds a tropical look to the garden and has beautiful red leaves
Common Name
Red Leaf Banana
Bloom Colors
Green
Water
Water daily until established, then water as needed
Zone
10 and above
Fertilizer
Feed periodically during the growing season with a slow-release fertilizer
Scientific Name
Ensete maurelii
Light
Direct to partial sun
Size
About 15 feet in the landscape, smaller if planted in a container
Overwintering
In zones 9 and lower, use as a container plant or as an annual in the landscape
Companion Plants
Sweet potato vine, duranta, foxtail fern