Ensete Mau 4” (Red Banana)

Ensete ‘Maurelii’, also known as the Red Abyssinian Banana, makes a stunning and unexpectedly manageable houseplant when given the right conditions. Indoors, its enormous leaves—painted in shades of burgundy, bronze, and deep green—create a bold, tropical focal point that feels almost sculptural. While it won’t reach the towering heights it achieves outdoors, it can still grow into an impressive indoor specimen with broad, dramatic foliage.

As a houseplant, Ensete ‘Maurelii’ thrives in very bright light, ideally placed near a south- or east-facing window. Morning sun from the east is especially beneficial, providing strong light without excessive heat, while bright southern exposure helps intensify its red coloration. Because indoor light is typically weaker than outdoor light, the plant should be positioned as close to the window as possible, or supplemented with a grow light to keep its colors rich and its growth strong. It prefers warm indoor temperatures and appreciates higher humidity, though it adapts well to normal household levels.

Caring for Ensete ‘Maurelii’ indoors involves regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Using a large pot with excellent drainage helps protect the thick pseudostem from rot. During the active growing season, a balanced fertilizer supports its fast, lush growth. With proper light, warmth, and attentive watering, this extraordinary banana plant transforms a room into a vibrant, tropical escape—becoming a true living centerpiece in any home.