The Majestic Full Grown Red Banana Tree

With its vibrant burgundy foliage and striking tropical appearance, the full grown red banana tree makes a stunning focal point in any landscape. Though they don’t produce edible bananas, ornamental red banana trees add gorgeous color and an exotic vibe to gardens, patios, poolsides and more.

If you’re considering adding a full grown red banana tree to your outdoor space, here’s everything you need to know about these magnificent plants.

Ornamental red banana trees belong to either the Ensete or Musa botanical genera The popular Red Abyssinian banana tree is an Ensete, while the Siam Ruby banana tree falls under the Musa genus

Despite their common name, ornamental banana trees are actually giant herbaceous perennials, not woody trees. Their trunk-like stem is called a pseudostem and is composed of tightly wrapped leaf stalks.

Red banana trees are grown purely for their vibrant foliage and structural impact. They typically don’t produce edible bananas The brilliant red and green leaves can reach up to 10 feet long, providing a hugely dramatic, tropical look

Growing Conditions for Red Banana Trees

To thrive, red banana trees need very specific growing conditions. Here are their key requirements:

• Hardiness – Red banana trees only grow in USDA zones 9-11 as they cannot tolerate any frost Provide winter protection in cooler climates

• Sun – Full sun is ideal, but partial sun or light shade is tolerated.

• Soil – Bananas need nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Amend clay soil with compost.

• Water – Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Established trees can handle some drought.

• Humidity – Ensete bananas prefer drier air while Musa varieties need higher humidity. Consider your climate when choosing a variety.

Caring for a Red Banana Tree

Taking proper care of your red banana tree will keep it healthy and looking its best. Follow these tips:

• Water 1-2 times per week, more in extreme heat. Test soil before watering.

• Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during spring and summer. Compost also provides nutrients.

• Prune dead leaves or those damaged by wind/rain by cutting at the base of the petiole.

• Provide winter protection in zones cooler than 9. Move potted trees indoors or insulate in ground plants.

• Stake trees over 5 feet tall to prevent pseudostem damage from winds. Use wide, flexible ties.

The Growth Rate of Red Banana Trees

One thing to know about red ornamental banana trees is that they are slow growers compared to their fruiting banana counterparts.

On average, a red banana tree grows:

• 1 foot per year for the first 2 years
• 2-3 feet per year for years 3-5
• Up to 5 feet per year once mature, reaching 15-20 feet tall

So you’ll need some patience to get a full grown red banana tree! But the wait is worth it for the dynamic, tropical statement it provides.

How Long Red Banana Trees Live

The average lifespan of a red ornamental banana tree is 5-10 years or more with proper care and conditions.

Ensete banana trees take slightly longer than Musa bananas to reach maturity. But they also tend to live longer – up to 10 years compared to 5-8 years for fruiting bananas.

Red banana trees flower only once when fully mature, after which the parent plant dies. However, they produce suckers which can be removed and replanted.

Choosing the Best Red Banana Variety

There are several popular varieties of ornamental red banana trees to choose from:

• Red Abyssinian – A widely available Ensete banana reaching 15 feet tall with deep burgundy leaves.

• Maurelli – Another Ensete variety with bright red-flushed foliage and imposing size.

• Siam Ruby – A Musa banana with red-streaked leaves and better humidity tolerance.

• Rojo and Zebrina – Two other Musa red banana cultivars worth considering.

Visit reputable nurseries to view varieties in person before purchase. This helps ensure you get the look and growing traits you desire.

Growing Red Banana Trees in Pots

With some preparation, you can successfully grow small to mid-size red banana trees in containers:

• Select a large pot – at least 3 feet deep and 2 feet wide for a mature tree.

• Use a quality potting mix amended with compost or worm castings.

• Water more frequently compared to in-ground – check soil daily.

• Provide strong support as needed once the tree exceeds 3 feet tall.

• Move indoors or to a sheltered spot in winter if not frost hardy.

Adding a Full Grown Red Banana Tree to Your Landscape

A full grown red banana tree makes a breathtaking focal point or backdrop planting. Consider these design ideas:

• Plant as a central feature in a tropical-themed courtyard or pool area.

• Flank the entrance to your home or a garden path for exotic flair.

• Use as a living screen for privacy or to block unattractive views.

• Contrast against green foliage plants like elephant ears or palms.

Let your imagination run wild when incorporating a full grown red banana into your outdoor space! It’s sure to provide major wow factor.

With their vibrant foliage and commanding form, red ornamental banana trees are truly stunning additions to tropical-style gardens. Do your research to find the perfect variety, then get ready to enjoy its magic for years to come!