Ensete Maurelii

Plant name: Ensete Maurelii

Scientific name: Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’

Plant description:
Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii,’ commonly known as Red Abyssinian Banana, is a dramatic ornamental banana grown for its bold foliage and architectural presence. Unlike fruiting bananas, this species is cultivated strictly for its large, richly colored leaves and upright, trunk-like pseudostem. It forms a single-stemmed plant with a strong vertical habit, making it an effective focal point in tropical-style landscapes and large containers.

Flower description:
Flowering is rare in cultivation and typically occurs only on mature plants in consistently warm climates. When produced, flowers emerge from the center on a thick stalk with layered bracts, similar in structure to other banana relatives. The plant is grown primarily for foliage rather than bloom.

Leaf description:
Leaves are broad, paddle-shaped, and deep burgundy to bronze-red with a prominent central midrib. The undersides often display richer red tones, especially in strong light. Mature leaves can reach several feet in length, creating a bold, upright canopy that adds structure and color contrast to plantings.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Tender perennial that remains evergreen in frost-free climates. In colder regions, foliage declines after frost and plants must be protected or overwintered indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 9–11 outdoors; grown as a seasonal container plant or lifted for overwintering in cooler climates.

Mature height and width:
Typically 6–10 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide in one growing season under favorable conditions. Container-grown plants may remain slightly smaller depending on space and care.

Landscape uses:
Ideal as a focal point in tropical-themed gardens, poolside plantings, large patio containers, and dramatic mixed borders. Its upright form and bold foliage provide strong contrast against fine-textured plants and flowering perennials.

Native range:
The species Ensete ventricosum is native to East Africa; ‘Maurelii’ is an ornamental cultivar selected for its deep red foliage.

Sun exposure:
Performs best in full sun to light partial shade. Strong light enhances leaf color and supports sturdy growth. Gradual acclimation to intense sun prevents leaf scorch.

Water requirements:
Requires consistently moist, well-drained soil during active growth. Regular watering supports rapid leaf production and strong structure. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can cause root issues. Container plants need close monitoring during warm weather.

Pests and problems:
Generally low maintenance but may occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, or caterpillars. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. Strong winds may tear large leaves, though this does not typically harm overall plant health.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Handles high heat well when provided with steady moisture and nutrients. Sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures; exposure to cold can damage foliage and kill the plant if unprotected.

Growing tips:
Plant in rich, fertile soil amended with organic matter to support rapid growth. Feed regularly during the growing season to maintain strong color and leaf size. Provide wind protection where possible to preserve leaf integrity. In cooler climates, grow in large containers to allow for easier seasonal protection. Position where its height and bold foliage can serve as a vertical anchor in the landscape.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.