Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’, also known as the Blood Banana or Red Tiger Banana, is one of the most striking ornamental banana varieties, prized for its bold foliage marked with deep red and maroon patterns. A member of the Musaceae family and native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, this stunning plant captures the wild, exotic essence of the jungle with its vivid, painterly leaves and graceful, upright form.

Each large, paddle-shaped leaf is a rich green splashed with irregular crimson streaks, spots, and brushstrokes, giving it a dramatic, almost hand-painted appearance. The colourful markings are most intense on younger leaves, gradually softening as they mature. Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’ grows in clumps, producing elegant, arching leaves that fan out from a sturdy pseudostem — creating a lush, tropical display in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Fast-growing, decorative, and full of tropical character, the Zebrina Banana is the perfect statement plant for collectors or gardeners looking to bring vibrant, jungle-inspired beauty to their home or garden.

Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect to filtered sunlight. A few hours of gentle morning or late-afternoon sun will enhance the deep red markings. Avoid intense midday sunlight, which can burn the leaves, or very low light, which may fade the variegation.

Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 3–5 cm of soil feels dry, ensuring excess water can drain away freely. In warm months, this banana enjoys regular watering to support rapid growth. Reduce frequency slightly in cooler seasons.

Temperature and Humidity

Temperature: Prefers warmth between 20–30 °C and should be kept above 15 °C at all times. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Humidity: High humidity (60–80%) is ideal. Mist regularly, use a humidifier, or group with other tropical plants to maintain a moist microclimate around the leaves.

Soil and Potting

Use a rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter — compost blended with perlite, coco coir, and a little sand provides the ideal balance of aeration and moisture retention. Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh the substrate and accommodate vigorous root growth.

Feeding

Feed every 4 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted, balanced fertiliser or one formulated for leafy tropical plants. Consistent feeding supports strong, colourful foliage. Suspend fertilising in autumn and winter when growth slows.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove older, yellowing leaves near the base to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage fresh new growth. Wipe the large leaves gently with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and highlight their brilliant markings. Rotate occasionally for balanced light exposure.

Growth and Maturity

A vigorous grower, Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’ can reach 1.5–2 metres indoors and up to 3 metres outdoors in tropical or greenhouse conditions. With proper care, it can produce clusters of bright yellow bananas, though these fruits are typically ornamental rather than edible. Its rapid growth and stunning foliage make it one of the most rewarding banana species to cultivate.

Common Issues

• Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering.

• Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Faded red markings: Insufficient light.

• Pests: Occasionally affected by spider mites, aphids, or thrips — treat promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Background and Benefits

Native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, Musa acuminata is one of the wild ancestors of modern cultivated bananas. The ‘Zebrina’ variety stands out for its ornamental foliage, used historically in Southeast Asian gardens for its symbolic beauty and bold colouration.

Today, Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’ is cultivated worldwide as a feature plant, prized for its fast growth and exotic appeal. Its broad leaves help humidify and purify indoor air, creating a relaxing tropical atmosphere. Symbolically, its vibrant foliage represents vitality and abundance — making it a perfect addition to biophilic design schemes.

Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect light; tolerates soft morning sun

• Water: Keep soil evenly moist; avoid waterlogging

• Temperature: 20–30 °C; avoid below 15 °C

• Humidity: High (60–80%)

• Soil: Rich, well-draining mix – compost, perlite, coco coir, sand

• Feed: Every 4 weeks in spring/summer

• Growth: 1.5–2 m indoors (up to 3 m outdoors); large green leaves splashed with deep red markings

⚠️ Toxicity note: Non-toxic to humans and pets, but fruit is ornamental and not recommended for consumption.

Styling Tip

Showcase Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’ as a dramatic feature plant in bright interiors, conservatories, or sheltered patios. Its broad, red-streaked leaves look stunning against neutral backgrounds or paired with green foliage plants such as Philodendron ‘Imperial Green’, Ficus ‘Belize’, or Monstera deliciosa. For a tropical resort feel, plant it in a large terracotta or ceramic pot and position it where the light can filter through its bold leaves — a true showpiece for exotic plant lovers.