About the Plant Zebrina Rojo

The ornamental banana plant known as zebrina rojo is grown in homes and outdoor gardens for its attractive foliage, which is green streaked with burgundy in variegated patterns. The red-colored fruit zebrina rojo produces is seeded and inedible, but the plant is still a desired specimen of gardeners around the world for its exotic appearance, especially when grown in mass. Does this Spark an idea?

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Musa Sumatrana
- Musa sumatrana is more commonly known as the zebrina rojo or "red banana" plant. Also known as "bloodleaf" or the "blood banana," zebrina rojo plants are cultivated for their strikingly colorful leaves, which are narrow and feature patches or streaks of green and purplish-red patches and deep maroon undersides. Zebrina rojo plants have solid red stems that grow vertically to reach heights of up to 10 feet when planted outdoors.
Natural Habitat
- The zebrina rojo plant is native to the world's humid tropics, where it grows beneath the shade of tall-growing canopy trees. Zebrina rojo has adapted to thrive in the hot, wet conditions of tropical and sub-tropical regions by developing broad leafy foliage and small fruits and flowers. Gardeners living in USDA zones 8 through 11 will have the best success in growing zebrina rojo in outdoor spaces, but anyone can create the ideal environment for the blood banana plant indoors.
Effect of Sunlight
- The sunlight requirements of zebrina rojo plants are very particular, though easy to satisfy. Increasing the amount of light enhances the color contrast in the leaves of certain species. However, too much direct sunlight or periods of prolonged exposure to artificial light creates an unnatural setting, and the plant may not produce the contrasting colors that have come to identify the species.
General Care
- Musa sumatrana requires plenty of water, well-drained soil and a shady location that receives some sunlight. Zebrina rojo plants are well-adapted to indoor growing spaces and being grown in containers. When kept in a large container, zebrina rojo will grow to reach heights between 3 and 5 feet. Slow-released fertilizer will help ensure your zebrina rojo plants receive the nutrients they need throughout the growing season.