Red Abyssinian (Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii')
Tropical Beauty, Edible Roots, and Instant Jungle Vibes
The Red Abyssinian Banana is a bold, fast-growing showstopper that brings wild tropical drama wherever it grows. Native to the highlands of Ethiopia, Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’ features massive green leaves streaked with rich red and purple tones, forming an upright, architectural centerpiece that looks straight out of a rainforest dream. While this banana relative doesn’t produce edible fruit, its starchy underground corm (root) is edible and holds deep cultural importance in East Africa, where it’s known as enset—a traditional staple crop fermented and prepared into flatbreads and porridge.
In gardens, the Red Abyssinian Banana grows with lightning speed, filling empty corners and transforming spaces into lush, tropical retreats. It’s perfect for gardeners who want that “instant jungle” feel, whether planted in the ground or in a large decorative pot.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
In Ethiopia, enset (the true species Ensete ventricosum) is affectionately known as the “tree against hunger.” Its edible root and pseudostem are harvested, fermented, and made into a nutritious bread called kocho, a staple food for millions. The red-leaved ornamental form, ‘Maurelii,’ honors this ancient crop while offering gardeners around the world a spectacular way to celebrate its heritage. Though most grow it for its beauty, adventurous gardeners can still harvest and experiment with the edible root—an uncommon link between food, culture, and ornamental gardening.
Why Grow Red Abyssinian Banana?
- Striking red-green foliage adds instant tropical impact
- Native to Ethiopia and historically cultivated for its edible root (enset)
- Fast-growing and architectural—perfect centerpiece for edible or ornamental landscapes
- Wind-tolerant, lush, and easy to grow with regular watering
- Non-invasive, long-lived, and endlessly dramatic