Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii' - 2 or 3ltr pots

Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii', commonly known as the Red or Purple Abyssinian Banana, is a fast-growing, tropical perennial admired for its large, brightly colored foliage. It is a popular choice for adding a dramatic, exotic feel to gardens and container displays. 

Appearance

• Leaves: The plant produces huge, paddle-shaped leaves that can reach several meters in length. They are green on the surface with distinctive red or purple shading, especially along the edges and veins, which is most vibrant in full sun. The undersides of the leaves are a rich, dark crimson color.
• Trunk: The thick, leafy trunk is also purplish in color.
• Size: It can grow rapidly, sometimes reaching 1.5 to 3 meters or more in height in a single season under optimal conditions.
• Flowers and Fruit: The plant rarely flowers in cultivation. Like other Abyssinian bananas, it is not a true banana and produces inedible, dry, banana-like fruits. 

Growing conditions

• Light: For the best foliage color, grow in full sun. It can tolerate partial shade but may have less vibrant coloration.
• Soil: It thrives in rich, well-drained, and moist soil.
• Watering: This plant is thirsty during the summer. Water frequently to promote the largest and healthiest leaf growth.
• Feeding: During spring and summer, feed weekly with a liquid fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
• Position: Choose a sheltered spot away from strong winds, as they can shred the large leaves and make them look unsightly. 

Overwintering and hardiness

• Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii' is a tender perennial and cannot tolerate frost.
• In pots: In autumn, move container-grown plants to a cool, dark, and frost-free location for the winter, such as a garage or basement. Allow the plant to dry out and do not water it.
• In the ground: Before the first frost, dig up plants grown in garden beds. Cut back the foliage, lift the root ball, and hang it upside down to drain any moisture from the stem. Store in a dry, cool, and frost-free place until late spring, when it can be re-potted and moved outside.