Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’ (Red banana, Abyssinian banana, Ethiopian banana)

This banana-like perennial has large paddle-shaped leaves, which range in color from deep brown to red-purple to pale green. The leaves are very fast growing, producing huge banana leaves which are a lovely green with red and a deep red midrib. Looks like it has been hand painted. Fruits are banana-like but dry and inedible. This plant needs lots of space and lots of attention. It also needs a protected site. It is a classic foliage plant that becomes a striking specimen in the landscape. A popular choice for tropical-inspired gardens.