Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’
Purple Abyssinian Banana
The Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’, known as the ‘Ethiopian Banana’, is one of the most spectacular plants that can grow outside in the UK climate. As it grows the Ensete develops into an colossal fountain of paddle shaped foliage, veined with deep burgundy leaves erupting from a bulbous purple trunk.
The striking form and colour of this banana plant makes it perfect for use as a statement plant in tropical borders or large container displays.
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Plant Biography
In its native Ethiopia, the species ventricosum is an important food source. However, they are not grown for the banana-like fruit they produce, which is actually dry and inedible, but rather the ‘heart’ which is the edible tissue found around the growing point.
Enset, the edible part, is a staple food source for Ethiopia’s population to this day, providing for around 20% of the country’s population, yet is largely unknown outside of its narrow zone of cultivation.
Expert Tip
Care & Size Guidance
Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’ can grow vigorously, with the potential to make a new 2.5m leaf each week in the right conditions. Full sun, well drained soil and regular watering is a must for its good health, and feeding will further encourage vigorous growth.
They need to be kept entirely frost free in Winter. This is often achieved by lifting it from the border and keeping in a frost free shed or conservatory. For this reason we recommend keeping it in a pot, but where the weather is clear and there is no risk of frost, it can be planted out.
Although there was a problem with my order, it was immediately resolved by Robert, in a most courteous and generous manner. I have used this company for the last ten years and the plants and the service is always excellent.
David –
Very pleased with this plant. It arrived well packed and protected. I’ll enjoy watching it grow. I would be happy to recommend you to my friends. In fact I’m the only one in my street with a banana plant so here’s hoping my neighbours will want one or two.
Jean Rich (verified owner) –
Ordered a selection of plants they arrived as and when promised. Whoever packs the plants knows what they are doing best packaged plants I have ever received. Each one individually wrapped and secured to the inside of the box with tape!
All arrived in perfect order with no damage. The standard of plant was excellent, I will be ordering again and letting my gardening friends know.
Ed –
Just received our 2 Maurelii plants. Beautiful plants and well worth the wait. Thank you so much. We were kept fully informed of the unavoidable delays and they arrived this morning. Securely packed. Im absolutely thrilled with them. Now where to put them….
Carolyn P. –