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Abyssinian banana
Scientific Name: Ensete ventricosum
Family: Musaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Abyssinian Banana (Ensete ventricosum)
The Abyssinian banana, scientifically known as Ensete ventricosum, is a striking plant that can add a tropical flair to gardens and landscapes. It is often grown as an ornamental due to its large, paddle-shaped leaves and dramatic appearance.
Common Names
- Abyssinian banana
- Ethiopian banana
- False banana
- Ensete
- Wild banana
- Red Abyssinian banana (specifically for the Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii' cultivar)
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Ensete ventricosum
- Family: Musaceae
- Synonyms:
- For Ensete glaucum: Musa nepalensis, Ensete giganteum, Ensete wilsonii
- Cultivar: Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii' (Red Abyssinian banana)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the high mountains of East Africa, particularly the Ethiopian highlands.
- Found in open mountainous habitats.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Herbaceous perennial with large, paddle-shaped leaves.
- Leaves range in color from deep claret brown to red-purple to pale green.
- Can reach 18-20 feet in height.
- Has a thick pseudotrunk.
- The 'Maurelii' cultivar (Red Abyssinian banana) has deep red foliage and thick red trunks.
Ecological Role
- A staple food crop in its native Ethiopia (the plant has edible flower stalks, although the fruit is inedible).
- Increasingly popular as a summer bedding plant in other regions.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- The text mentions that the plant has large leaves and can grow to a significant size.
Quirky Facts
- Despite being called a banana, the fruit of Ensete ventricosum is inedible.
- The Red Abyssinian banana (Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii') is often grown for its dramatic foliage and is a popular choice for adding a tropical feel to gardens.
Further Information
- RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
- Dave's Garden
- Harry P. Leu Botanical Garden in Orlando, Florida.
- Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe