Vintage Garden Seeds
Red Abyssinian Banana (Musa Ensete Ventricosum) Flowering Fruit Tree Seeds
Red Abyssinian Banana (Musa Ensete Ventricosum) Flowering Fruit Tree Seeds
Couldn't load pickup availability
The Red Abyssinian Banana (Musa ensete ventricosum) is a spectacular tropical plant prized for its giant red-green foliage and ornamental flowering spikes. Native to East Africa, this fast-growing banana species is often called the “False Banana”, as it produces banana-like fruits that are ornamental rather than edible.
With its deep burgundy leaf veins, broad foliage, and majestic height, the Red Abyssinian Banana creates an instant tropical ambiance — perfect for garden landscapes, poolside planting, or large containers. It thrives in warm, humid climates but can also be grown indoors in cooler regions.
This non-GMO, exotic flowering tree is a favorite among tropical plant collectors for its vibrant color, dramatic growth, and low maintenance.
Features
- 🍃 Exotic Red-Green Leaves: Large tropical leaves with deep red midribs.
- 🌺 Flowering Variety: Produces tall, colorful ornamental flower stalks.
- 🌞 Fast Growth: Reaches full height within 2–3 growing seasons.
- 🪴 Perfect for Containers: Ideal as a patio or indoor statement plant.
- 🌴 Low Maintenance: Drought-resistant once mature; thrives in warm weather.
- 🌎 Non-GMO Seeds: Naturally sourced, untreated, and ready for planting.
Specifications
- Common Name: Red Abyssinian Banana / Ensete Banana / False Banana
- Scientific Name: Musa ensete ventricosum
- Plant Type: Tropical ornamental fruit tree
- USDA Zones: 9 – 11 (can be grown indoors elsewhere)
- Mature Height: 8 – 20 ft (2.5 – 6 m)
- Spread: 6 – 10 ft (1.8 – 3 m)
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Rich, well-drained loamy soil
- Watering: Regular; keep soil consistently moist
- Foliage Color: Red-green with burgundy midribs
- GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
- Growth Rate: Fast; matures within 2–3 years
- Fruit Type: Ornamental (non-edible)
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 48 hours before planting.
- Sowing Depth: ½ inch deep in nutrient-rich, moist soil.
- Temperature: Maintain 80–90°F for germination.
- Germination Time: 3–6 weeks (may take longer in cooler climates).
- Transplanting: Move outdoors or into large containers once 8–10 inches tall.
- Watering: Keep evenly moist; avoid letting soil dry out completely.
- Light: Provide full sunlight for optimal growth.
Care Tips
- Apply a balanced tropical plant fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
- Keep soil moist but well-drained to prevent root rot.
- Prune dead or yellowing leaves to promote healthy growth.
- In cooler zones, overwinter indoors or in a heated greenhouse.
