Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’: The Ultimate Statement Banana for Dramatic Gardens
The Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’, often called the Red Abyssinian Banana, is one of the most dramatic architectural plants you can grow in the UK. With its huge red‑tinted leaves, rapid growth, and bold tropical look, it transforms any space instantly. In this guide, we’ll cover how to grow it, overwinter it, feed it, and style it — along with links to buy healthy plants and explore more banana‑growing blogs on Dartana Plants.
What Is Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’?
The Red Abyssinian Banana is a fast‑growing ornamental banana from East Africa. Unlike Musa bananas, Ensete species do not produce offsets, and the ‘Maurelii’ cultivar is prized for:
- Deep burgundy‑red leaves
- Huge paddle‑like form (up to 3–4m in ideal conditions)
- Fast summer growth
- Bold, exotic impact in borders or large pots
Buy Ensete ‘Maurelii’ from Dartana Plants:
Where to Plant Ensete ‘Maurelii’
This is a sun‑lover that thrives in warm, sheltered spots:
- Full sun for the richest red colouring
- Rich, moisture‑retentive soil
- Plenty of space to display its architectural leaves
Recommended reading for container growers:
👉 Musa (Banana Plants): The Ultimate Guide to Growing Tropical Drama in UK Gardens
How Fast Do They Grow?
Very fast. With warmth, feed, and water, Maurelii can add 1–2 metres of height in a single summer.
To maximise growth:
- Water generously
- Feed every 7–10 days in summer
- Mulch or top‑dress throughout the season
For feeding guidance suitable for heavy‑feeding exotics, see:
👉 https://dartanaplants.co.uk/community/blog/post/colocasia-growing-guide-planting-care-tips
Watering Requirements
Maurelii thrives on ample moisture:
- Deep watering 3–4 times per week in hot weather
- Never let pots fully dry out
- Rainwater enhances leaf colour
Overwintering Ensete ‘Maurelii’ in the UK
Unlike Musa basjoo, Ensete cannot survive a UK winter outdoors. You have three overwintering options:
1. Keep It Growing Indoors
A bright conservatory or heated greenhouse works perfectly.
2. Store It Completely Dry (Most Reliable Method)
- Lift plant and remove all soil from the roots
- Trim leaves to 30–40 cm
- Store upright in a cool, dry, dark location (5–12 °C)
- Do not water until spring
General winter protection principles:
Dartana’s original write‑up on this plant:
3. Treat as an Annual
Not ideal for large plants, but an option for small ones.
Common Problems
Bleaching: Too much shade or too little feed
Wind tear: Large leaves need sheltered planting
Rot in storage: Ensure crown stays fully dry
Design Ideas: How to Style Ensete ‘Maurelii’
Perfect for bold, exotic garden design.
Ideal companion plants:
- Colocasia (deep, dramatic foliage)
- Cannas (hot tropical colour)
- Tetrapanax (similar giant‑leaf structure)
- Salvias (vivid colour beneath the canopy)
👉 A great Salvia option (Caradonna):
More tropical design reads:
FAQ
Is Ensete ‘Maurelii’ hardy?
No — must be lifted and stored indoors or dry‑stored.
How tall?
Usually 2–3m in the UK.
Does it flower?
Rarely, and only once (monocarpic).
Does it produce pups?
No — unlike Musa, Ensete does not form offsets.
