Abyssinian Banana
Ensete ventricosum
SKU
6195
Tropical appearance to this fast growing palm-like ornamental perennial. Rising from the solitary pseudotrunk are large paddle-shaped 10- to 15-foot long bright green leaves having a bright red lower midrib. Protect from strong winds. Evergreen. Full sun. To 20 feet tall, 15-foot spread. Seed grown.
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10 - 11 Change
Full sun
Needs regular watering - weekly, or more often in extreme heat.
We no longer grow this plant
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| Botanical Pronunciation | EN-se-te ven-tri-COH-sum |
|---|---|
| Lore | Although this plant is called a banana and falls into the same family, its fruit is not edible. |
| Average Size at Maturity | Fast growing to 15 to 20 ft. tall. |
| Bloom Time | Inconspicuous |
| Design Ideas | The overall form of this single fat-trunk Banana actually resembles some long-leaved Palm. A valuable plant for high-density coastal gardens on the lee side of buildings protected from onshore breezes. This plant can reach tree-sized proportions, which may overwhelm smaller sites. It is unmatched for bringing down the scale of multistory walls and even offers a good deal of shade when mature. Best planted as a single specimen for drama or in small groves to create a more lush effect. This is a perfect plant for in between buildings. |
| Deciduous/ Evergreen | Evergreen |
| Flower Color | Red |
| Foliage Color | Green |
| Garden Style | Contemporary, Tropical |
| Growth Habit | Erect |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Landscape Use | Container, Poolside |
| Light Needs | Full sun |
| Soil Needs | All-Purpose Plant Food |
| Special Feature | Dramatic Foliage Color, Easy Care, Tolerates Acidic Soil, Tolerates Poor Soils |
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Watering Needs | Needs regular watering - weekly, or more often in extreme heat. |
| Key Feature | Tropical |
Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Watering can be reduced after establishment. Feed with a general purpose fertilizer before new growth begins in spring.
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