Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii'
red abyssinian or Ethiopian banana ( syn. Musa ensete rubra )
One of the showiest plants for the summer garden, this Abyssinian banana grows at a rate of knots in summer (if kept well fed and watered), producing amazing burgundy-flushed green leaves. Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii' makes a spectacular specimen plant for an exotic-style garden in a frost-free area.
Where temperatures fall below 7°C (45°F), it's best grown in a large pot that can be moved under glass during the colder months, or keep it in a temperate greenhouse, shaded from hot sun throughout the year.
Where temperatures fall below 7°C (45°F), it's best grown in a large pot that can be moved under glass during the colder months, or keep it in a temperate greenhouse, shaded from hot sun throughout the year.
How to care for Ensete ventricosum Maurelii:
Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot with fertile, well-drained soil, or in a large, frost-proof pot with free-draining genral-purpose compost. Water thoroughly after planting and maintain regular moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser once a month.
Lift outdoor plants before the first frosts, reducing the top growth to the newest 2-3 leaves and trimming long roots, then overwinter under glass in a frost-free greenhouse or indoor space. Apply a 5-7?cm (2-3?in) mulch around the base in summer to conserve moisture, and avoid cutting into old growth, simply tidying damaged leaves if needed.
Lift outdoor plants before the first frosts, reducing the top growth to the newest 2-3 leaves and trimming long roots, then overwinter under glass in a frost-free greenhouse or indoor space. Apply a 5-7?cm (2-3?in) mulch around the base in summer to conserve moisture, and avoid cutting into old growth, simply tidying damaged leaves if needed.
Eventual height:
5m
Eventual spread:
4m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Frost tender
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This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
