Banana, Ever Red (Musa sikkimensis)

(Musa sikkimensis 'Lou 1,' PPAF) Create a tropical hideaway in your backyard with this exotic-looking hardy banana. Given time, it forms an impressive plant, growing to over 13 feet tall in about 10 years. Though it doesn't bear fruit, its large, arching leaves with maroon-red striping offer a wonderful tropical touch. In colder zones, the foliage will die back. After a hard frost, cut plants back to 12" above the ground and mound a thick layer of mulch over stems. Tolerates windy conditions. Zones: 5-10. Ht: 10-13'. PP