Red Abyssinian Banana Tree for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide

Planting and Care

by John Haryasz | Horticulture Writer and Landscape Designer – last update on December 16, 2022

Planting instructions

Most gardeners throughout the United States will need to grow their Red Abyssinian Banana Tree in a container to allow for overwintering whenever the outdoor temperatures drop down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If you belong to that group, you should plant your Red Abyssinian Banana Tree in a container that is considerably wider than the root ball and allows for excellent drainage. If you live in zone eight or warmer, you can grow this plant outdoors by planting it in a hole that is as deep as the root ball is tall and about twice as wide.

Watering and nutrients

After planting your Red Abyssinian Banana Tree, you’ll need to water it multiple times per week during the first few months of growth. Following the first growing season, you should water this plant about once per week during the summer, increasing that rate in the case of exceptionally hot and dry weather. It is often best to feed this plant once per month during the entire growing season. The fertilizer you use should have an equal balance of nutrients.

Pollination

Pollination is not something you’ll need to concern yourself with while caring for your Red Abyssinian Banana Tree for multiple reasons. First, although this plant has the word banana in its name, it is not a true banana tree and does not produce edible fruits. As such, you won’t need to worry about facilitating pollination for the sake of producing a harvest. Additionally, this plant does not produce flowers each year, which would allow for pollination to take place. Instead, this tree will bloom once at full maturity before dying back to the ground.

Pruning

Overall, your Red Abyssinian Banana Tree will not need a lot of pruning throughout its life. This plant consists of a main central stalk that carries several incredibly large leaves. Over time, you’ll notice that some of the older leaves on the plant will become damaged, wilted or entirely dead. When you notice this, simply use your pruning tools to remove the affected leaf by making a cut close to the main stem. Removing these spent leaves will keep your Red Abyssinian Banana Tree healthy and looking its best.

Pests, diseases and animals

There are a few pest issues that you should watch out for while caring for your Red Abyssinian Banana Tree. Some of the most common garden insects to harm this plant are mealybugs, aphids and spider mites, among others. Occasionally, this plant may also experience disease problems, including chlorosis and bacterial wilt. However, if you find a suitable growing location for your Red Abyssinian Banana Tree and give it the right care, you can dramatically lower the odds of an infection taking place.

Achieving maximum results

The impressive red hues that appear on the Red Abyssinian Banana Tree are the main source of this plant’s ornamental value. Typically, that red color will be bolder and more impressive when this plant grows in full sunlight rather than in partial shade. Additionally, anyone growing a Red Abyssinian Banana Tree should know that this plant requires ample amounts of water and fertilizer throughout its life. Keeping up with regular watering and feedings will keep this plant looking fantastic.

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