Musa acuminata 'Zebrina', also known as the blood banana, is a striking variety of banana plant prized for its decorative foliage. The plant features large, broad leaves with a rich green hue, accented by deep red or maroon streaks, making it particularly eye-catching.
While it is a type of banana plant, 'Zebrina' is grown primarily for its ornamental qualities rather than fruit production. It typically reaches heights of 1.2 to 1.8 metres, making it a manageable size for home growing.
Native to:
Musa acuminata is native to Southeast Asia, particularly regions of Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. In its natural habitat, it thrives in tropical rainforests, growing under the canopy where it receives filtered light and high humidity.
Water:
This plant requires consistently moist soil, but it is essential to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the warmer months, regular watering is necessary to support its growth, while in the winter, reduce watering slightly to match the plant’s slower growth rate.
Light:
Musa acuminata 'Zebrina' prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon, but too much direct light can cause the leaves to scorch. If placed in a dimmer location, its growth may slow, and the vibrant leaf patterns might become less pronounced.
Humidity:
This plant thrives in high humidity levels, ideally above 60%. In typical indoor environments, it benefits from regular misting or the use of a humidifier. For smaller plants, a terrarium setup can help maintain the necessary humidity levels.
Temperature:
Musa acuminata 'Zebrina' prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 20°C and 28°C. It is sensitive to cold and should be kept away from draughts or temperatures below 15°C, which can cause the plant to suffer and its growth to slow down.
