Exploring the Diversity: Different Types of Abyssinian Banana Trees

The Abyssinian banana tree, also known as Ensete ventricosum, is a gorgeous tropical plant renowned for its massive, graceful leaves and sculptural form. But did you know there are actually several different varieties of this eye-catching plant to choose from?

While they all share the same basic care needs, Abyssinian banana tree cultivars can differ in size, leaf color, cold hardiness, and other traits. By understanding the unique features of each type, you can find your perfect match!

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the different Abyssinian banana tree varieties so you can make an informed pick for your indoor or outdoor space. Let’s explore the diversity within this beautiful tropical plant category

The Basics: Ensete Ventricosum

First, a quick botanical overview. The common Abyssinian banana tree belongs to the plant genus Ensete and species ventricosum. Ensete is closely related to edible bananas (Musa genus) but Abyssinian bananas are inedible ornamentals grown for foliage and form.

The species name ventricosum refers to the swollen, bulbous stem or “pseudostem” composed of packed leaf bases that give it a tropical vibe. The umbrella-shaped leaves can reach 10+ feet long by 3-4 feet wide on mature plants

Native to Africa and Southeast Asia, Ensete ventricosum thrives in warm, humid environments and makes an unforgettable statement anywhere it’s grown. Now let’s explore some of the most popular cultivars.

Maurelii – The Red-Tinged Beauty

Perhaps the most sought-after cultivar is Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’, commonly called the red Abyssinian banana tree. Young leaves emerge with a striking red tint that fades to green over time, resulting in captivating multicolored foliage.

‘Maurelii’ typically reaches around 9-12 feet tall and 5-8 feet wide. It has an upright, vase-like shape with leaves that point upward. The red coloration is most prominent when grown in full sun. For maximum vibrancy, provide very bright light if growing indoors.

This vigor and imposing form makes ‘Maurelii’ an unforgettable centerpiece plant well-suited to large outdoor spaces. It also grows well in containers. Just be sure to provide ample room for the extensive root system.

Montanum – The Cold Hardy Choice

For those in cooler climates, Ensete ventricosum ‘Montanum’ is an excellent choice. It’s the most cold tolerant cultivar, surviving light freezes down to around 30°F (-1°C).

‘Montanum’ has dark green leaves with a blue-green underside, and it grows up to 10 feet tall and wide. The leathery leaves are slightly rippled compared to other varieties.

While it grows more slowly than other cultivars, many appreciate ‘Montanum’ for its ability to thrive in areas too cold for other Abyssinian bananas. Just provide lots of sunlight and limit exposure to frost.

Glaucum – Extra Large and Ornamental

At the opposite end of the spectrum is Ensete ventricosum ‘Glaucum’, which boasts massive leaves that can reach over 13 feet long and 4 feet wide! Needless to say, it requires serious space to accommodate the 20 foot height and 15 foot spread when mature.

The foliage emerges with a striking powdery-blue cast before fading to blue-green, giving it a bold, ornamental look. The stems and undersides of leaves also have a unique glaucous (blue) hue.

For maximum impact in the landscape, situate ‘Glaucum’ where its giant, waving leaves can be appreciated. Container growing is only recommended for younger plants.

Ventri-Ramicola – A Compact Choice

One of the few dwarf varieties, Ensete ventricosum ‘Ventri-Ramicola’ is a compact cultivar that reaches just 6-8 feet tall at maturity. The glossy green leaves are intermediate in size, topping out around 5 feet long.

The pseudo-stem and leaves take on a neat, tidy appearance, making this variety well-suited to smaller gardens or growing in containers on decks and patios.

‘Ventri-Ramicola’ is easy to manage in tight spaces and also makes an intriguing indoor plant. Just prune to maintain its petite size as needed.

Gregarium – Fast Growing with Vibrant Red Stems

Ensete ventricosum ‘Gregarium’ stands out from other varieties thanks to the eye-catching, bright ruby red coloration on its stems and leaf bases. This unique cultivar also has lovely wide leaves with a silvery underside.

A fast grower, ‘Gregarium’ typically reaches around 10 feet tall and wide. The vibrant red pseudo-stems create a colorful, sculptural look as they swell and expand, making this a fantastic choice for modern tropical gardens.

Overdalei – The Most Cold Hardy Variety

For gardeners in chilly climates who want to push the hardiness envelope, Ensete ventricosum ‘Overdalei’ is the top choice. This cultivar survives winter temperatures down to 10°F (-12°C) and even lower with protection.

The dark green leaves are more rigid than other varieties and it reaches 8-10 feet high and wide when mature. ‘Overdalei’ grows well in zones 6-11 and is perfect if you want that tropical look farther north than Abyssinian bananas typically thrive.

Other Notable Varieties

While the varieties above are among the most popular, there are a number of other cultivars to explore:

• ‘Ugandense’ – Slender pseudostem and gracefully arching leaves

• ‘Victoriae’ – Can reach 30 feet tall with leaves over 13 feet long!

• ‘Silver Back’ – Olive green leaves with striking silver undersides

• ‘Rojo’ – Dark red leaves on younger plants

• ‘Zhongshaensis’ – Fast growing with wavy leaf margins

Key Takeaways on Abyssinian Banana Varieties

• Popular varieties include ‘Maurelii’ (red leaves), ‘Montanum’ (cold hardy), and ‘Glaucum’ (giant leaves).

• Choose ‘Overdalei’ or ‘Montanum’ for colder regions. Tropical varieties need zone 9+.

• Compact cultivars like ‘Ventri-Ramicola’ work well in containers and smaller spaces.

• Large cultivars can reach over 15 feet tall and wide – give them plenty of room!

• Leaf color, cold tolerance, size, and growth rate vary among different types.

Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Space

Part of the fun of growing Abyssinian banana trees lies in selecting from the diverse varieties available. Beyond climate considerations like cold tolerance, also think about size constraints, the look you want to achieve, and overall needs for your space.

Small urban gardens, for example, will thrive with a petite container variety like ‘Ventri-Ramicola’. Meanwhile, a massive cultivar like ‘Glaucum’ transforms large, open tropical gardens into a jungle paradise.

By understanding the options, you can easily find the perfect Abyssinian banana tree variety for your unique conditions and design vision. With so many types to choose from, you’re sure to discover one that checks all the boxes and upgrades your indoor or outdoor oasis with dreamy tropical flair.