An upright, fast-growing, banana-like perennial, about 4m tall, with huge, paddle shaped, slightly glaucous-tinged, bright olive-green leaves, and thick midribs, bright red beneath. Ideal for a tropical garden but requires the protection of a warm greenhouse or conservatory in winter
2.5-4 metres
2.5-4 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow outdoors in a frost-free area in humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. Under glass grow in peat-free, loam-based compost with shade from hot sun. Water freely and apply a balanced liquid feed every two weeks in the growing season. See banana cultivation for further information
Propagate by sowing seed at 21°C in spring; germination may be erratic
No pruning required, but cut dead leaves no lower than the base of each leaf
May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, aphids and mealybugs
Generally disease-free