varig8

This rare ornamental banana is indigenous to northern India and the higher elevations of Thailand. Its bright green leaves may reach 8' with a width of nearly 2' with a short petiole. This Ensete may reach 10' - 12' in height while its trunk is nearly 6' tall with an enormous swollen base of 7" - 8" in circumference at the base, narrowing to 3" below the leaves. Flowering begins with a one foot wide globose inflorescence, later drooping and elongating to 2' in length and 1" bracts which are laden with a huge quantity of 1" flowers. The numerous small fruits are 1 1/2" x 3" with a triangular shape and swollen with seeds. This plant is hardy to 30 F. If left out in cold regions it must be mulched to keep from freezing.