This sun lover and fast grower has a trunk, petioles and undersides of leaves that are a rich, dark red. Best grown as an annual in northern regions with hot, humid summers. This banana-like perennial has large paddle-shaped leaves, which range in color from deep claret brown to red-purple to pale green, produced from the center of the plant, with thick midribs bright red beneath. White flowers are borne in inflorescences 3 to 4 feet long. Fruits are banana-like but dry and unpalatable.

Uses: Specimen Plant, Focal Point

Full Sun to Part Shade

Zone 9-11

Height 20′