Banana Plant Ever Red 10”

Musa acuminata ‘Ever Red’ (Ever Red Banana)
Native to Southeast Asia, where bananas grow in warm, humid, high-light environments with consistent moisture and heat
This is a collector-style ornamental banana grown for its deep red to burgundy foliage, not fruit. The color intensity and large tropical leaf size make it a statement plant indoors or in bright patios
Leaves are broad, elongated, and paddle-shaped with rich red to maroon tones that deepen in higher light. New growth emerges tightly rolled and unfurls into large, dramatic foliage with a soft, slightly matte texture

Light requirements
Prefers south and west windows
Place directly at the window or within 1–2 ft. Can sit 3–5 ft back only if the window is unobstructed and very bright
Under grow lights use 5000K–6500K
Distance from canopy:
8–12 inches for strong color and active growth
10–14 inches for steady growth
Foot-candles: 2,500–5,000+ for best color and structure. Below 2,000 fc the red fades, growth slows, and leaves stretch

Watering & environment
Keep soil consistently lightly moist, not fully dry. This plant does not tolerate drying out like typical houseplants
Always check deeper in the root zone. The center of the root ball should feel slightly damp before watering again
Thrives in higher humidity (50–70%+) with strong airflow and warm temperatures above 65°F. Cold stress will stall growth quickly and damage foliage

What your plant is telling you
Needs water: leaves lose firmness, edges begin to curl inward, newer leaves may stop unfurling fully
Too wet: base of the plant softens, lower leaves yellow rapidly, soil stays heavy and stagnant with no dry-down cycle
Light issues: fading from red to dull green, elongated stretched growth, smaller leaves indicate not enough light. Scorching or crispy patches mean too close to intense direct light without acclimation