Plant Care Guide

Red Abyssinian Banana
Banana Ensete Maurelii

Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’

The Banana Ensete Maurelii, often called the Red Abyssinian Banana or Ethiopian Banana, is prized for its bold, red-green foliage that brings instant tropical drama to any garden. Native to East Africa, this fast-growing ornamental banana can reach towering heights in its native climate, though it remains more moderate in temperate zones. With proper red abyssinian banana tree care, its vibrant leaves and impressive form make it a true focal point in both landscapes and large containers.

Watering Requirements

Ensete Maurelii thrives in consistently moist soil but does not tolerate soggy roots.

Watering Schedule

  • Spring/Summer: Water 2+ times weekly, ensuring deep, thorough hydration.
  • Fall/Winter: Reduce watering as growth slows, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.

Signs of Overwatering

  • Yellowing, mushy leaves
  • Soft or collapsing pseudostem

Signs of Underwatering

  • Leaf curl, dry brown edges
  • Slowed growth

Pro Tips

Use a moisture meter or finger test to check soil 2–3 inches deep before watering—this helps prevent root issues.

Light Requirements

Light is crucial for maintaining the red coloration of this plant’s foliage.

Ideal Placement

  • Outdoors: Full sun, with partial shade in extremely hot climates
  • Indoors/Containers: Bright, indirect light or a south-facing window

Too Much Sun

  • Scorched or faded leaves in peak summer heat

Too Little Sun

  • Dull green leaves with less red coloration

Pro Tips

The more sun your Ensete receives, the deeper and more vivid the red tones will appear.

Soil and Potting

Proper soil ensures healthy roots and vibrant foliage.

Best Soil Mix

  • Rich, loamy, well-draining soil
  • Amended with compost for organic matter and aeration
  • Containers: Use a peat + perlite + compost mix

Container Growing

  • Use a large, heavy pot to stabilize tall growth
  • Refresh soil every 1–2 years to maintain fertility

Pro Tips

Choose a sheltered spot protected from high winds—large leaves can tear easily.

Fertilizing

This is a hungry plant that responds well to regular feeding.

Fertilizer Schedule

  • Feed every 2 weeks with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during spring and summer
  • For slow-release fertilizers, apply 3–4 times per season
  • Withhold fertilizer during winter dormancy

Deficiency Symptoms

  • Pale or stunted leaves indicate nitrogen deficiency
  • Weak growth may mean soil needs refreshing

Pro Tips

Combine liquid feedings with compost top-dressing for strong, steady growth.

Pruning and Maintenance

Ensete Maurelii requires occasional upkeep to look its best.

Pruning Guidelines

  • Remove damaged or wind-torn leaves throughout the season
  • Cut back foliage in fall before overwintering

Maintenance Notes

  • Does not produce edible fruit—grown strictly for ornamental foliage
  • Growth rate slows in cooler climates, but plants rebound quickly in summer

Pro Tips

Keep at least a few healthy leaves intact until frost—this maximizes photosynthesis and root strength before dormancy.

Common Problems and Solutions

Leaf Tears

  • Cause: Strong winds
  • Solution: Plant in sheltered areas; trimming damaged leaves is optional

Yellowing Leaves

  • Cause: Overwatering or lack of nutrients
  • Solution: Adjust watering schedule, apply balanced fertilizer

Weak or Green Leaves

  • Cause: Insufficient sunlight
  • Solution: Move to a sunnier location to restore red coloration

Pests

  • Susceptible to spider mites, scale, mealybugs, and aphids
  • Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap

Diseases

  • Watch for mosaic virus, anthracnose, or fungal wilts in overly wet soil
  • Prevent with proper drainage and sanitation

Pro Tips

If overwintering indoors, reduce watering and place in the brightest location possible to minimize stress.