Big Banana

This banana plant ‘Musa ensete rubra’ is easy to grow indoors, or outdoors in a sheltered area. If encouraged in a bright enough spot this plant could grow to 12 feet. It is beautiful foliage plant known for its striking red and green tones; you will not have any fruits grow on your plant though despite the name.

The tropical plant does need plenty of light but try to avoid direct sunlight which will scorch the young leaves. Banana plants are jungle plants and need regular watering. The compost should never be allowed to dry out. They like full sun or can do well in partial shade.

As the plant grows it can be re potted in a larger pot. Choose rich compost that will hold water well. You might like to treat your plant to a liquid feed if you want to encourage it to grow. To restrict growth however, keep slightly cooler and darker and restrict pot size. Banana are not hardy plants and will need protection through the winter months, move it inside to a frost free greenhouse or room.

Over time the older leaves will start to wither away and turn yellow from the bottom, this is a natural process and nothing to worry about. Remove these to allow new growth to form from the centre.

Banana plants are very tough plants and most problems are usually the result of under watering. Drooping leaves is the first sign of under watering and can be remedied with an immediate and thorough soaking. Brown tips to leaves - are usually the result of either scorching or extreme cold. Marked leaves should be removed from the bottom of the plant, to help encourage new growth from the top.

Finally, split leaves are the result of constant movement, either being brushed by passers by or buffeted by strong wind. Split leaves will not damage the plant but can look untidy so try to keep your plant away from main thoroughfares.