tropical RHS Award

Blood Banana

Musa acuminata 'Rojo'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tropical

Height

96 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

High

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial in tropics, annual elsewhere

Native To

Southeast Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Musa acuminata is a species of banana native to Southeast Asia and is one of the ancestors of modern edible bananas. These are fast-growing, herbaceous perennials that form clumps from underground rhizomes. The 'Rojo' variety, also known as Blood Banana, is grown for its spectacular ornamental foliage. The large, paddle-shaped leaves are green with dramatic splashes and streaks of deep red or burgundy, with a solid red underside.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The Blood Banana is a premier ornamental for creating a tropical atmosphere. Its large, dramatically variegated leaves serve as a stunning focal point in containers, on patios, or integrated into garden beds in warm climates.

In cooler climates, it can be grown as a houseplant or brought indoors for the winter, adding a touch of the exotic to interior spaces. The large leaves can be used to wrap food for steaming or grilling, imparting a subtle flavor.

While primarily ornamental, if it flowers, it can attract nectar-feeding bats and birds in its native habitat. The dense foliage can provide temporary shelter for small garden creatures.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a large container with excellent drainage holes.
Use a rich, well-draining potting mix high in organic matter.
Plant at the same depth it was in its nursery pot.
Place in a location with bright, indirect light or morning sun.
Water thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilize regularly throughout the active growing season.

Pro Tip

Provide consistent, heavy feeding and watering during the summer for the most lush and dramatic foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Provide high humidity by misting or using a pebble tray.
Feed regularly with a high-potassium fertilizer.
Protect from strong winds, which can shred the leaves.

Don't

Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Avoid placing in direct, harsh afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Don't expose to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Don't repot too frequently; they prefer to be slightly root-bound.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dramatic tropical container specimenBold foliage accent in mixed bordersLush poolside or patio planting

Companion Plants

Colocasia esculenta Canna indica Alpinia zerumbet Coleus scutellarioides Ipomoea batatas 'Blackie'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blood Banana questions

What zones can Blood Banana grow in?

Blood Banana is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blood Banana deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Blood Banana, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Blood Banana bloom?

Blood Banana typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blood Banana need full sun?

Blood Banana does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.