An ornamental banana with lush green foliage, featuring a striking burgundy midrib. An exceptionally quick grower, with bright pink blooms followed by inedible pink bananas in summer, once plants are established. Makes an interesting feature in borders or containers. Easy to grow.

Height: 1.5-1.8m (5-6ft).

Sow immediately on receipt. Soak seed in warm water for 24 hours before sowing. Sow seeds 2.5cm (1 inch) deep, in pots or trays of moist seed compost. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a constant temperature of between 20-25C (68-77F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination can take 1 to 6 months and may be slow and erratic.

When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3 inch) pots or trays, taking care not to damage the root system. Grow on in well-lit conditions, and pot on plants as required.

During summer, plants can be stood outside or planted into the border but will need frost protection in winter. Reduce watering and be aware that leaf ends may brown during winter, however this is perfectly normal.