Musa sikkimensis is one of the hardiest bananas – second hardiest to Musa basjoo. It has much to offer in addition or even in preference to Musa basjoo. It is larger. The leaves are held more upright and are more wind tolerant.However the most noticeable thing is they can be extremely colourful. Each plant varies but generally there is a degree of maroon staining on the upper leaf surface.The leaf underside has a metallic mauve sheen and the flower, when produced, is a rich purple. 'Red Tiger' is a particularly colourful cultivar, with strong purple banding on the leaf upper side.Like Musa basjoo, Musa sikkimensis will produce little sterile ‘banana fruits’ – quite a novelty.
Bananas are heavy feeders, to help establish your new Red Tiger Banana Plant, fertilize ten inches away from the base, four times annually with a slow time released product. Unfertilized they will tend to grow at a slower pace. Note: The heavy salts in cheaper fertilizers will damage the roots and possibly kill the banana. Its best to use a brand you know and trust.
Red Tiger Banana plants enjoy a well drained, general potting mix easily found at your local box store. Remember try to stay away from arid or wet, mucky soils.
In the northern end of their grow zone, containerized Red Tiger Banana Plants should be brought indoors or protected during the winter months.
All banana varieties grow very well in containers, indoors or on the patio. Smaller varieties grow best indoors in 12″ to 18″ diameter pots while larger varieties need enough room for growth, generally a 18″ to 36″ diameter, 14″ deep container will suffice. Remember the looser the roots, the taller and healthier your banana will be. When the plant becomes root bound its growth will slow, at that point it is time for a larger pot
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