Musa violacea is a very slender species from Bresil, very fast growing. It derives from a man-made hybrid between Musa Flaviflora and Musa Velutina. This ornamental banana grows to about 6 feet tall. The plant will stay smaller if grown as a container specimen for cooler climates. Can be used in tropical cut flower arrangements. This ornamental banana produces purple/pink flower bracts. Blooms appear year-round. Extremely quick to flower, can flower when only 3 feet in height. The small bananas are about 3 inches long, with white pulp and small black seeds. Leaves oblong, 1 meter long, 30 cm wide, mottled in a green / wine pattern. Hardiness zones 9-11, (4øC/40øF, -5øC/25øF) in Winter. During Summer, plants can be stood outside or planted into the border but will need frost protection in Winter. This species is cold tolerant and will survive even frosty Winters outside if heavily mulched. In Winter, reduce watering and be aware that leaf ends may brown, however this is perfectly normal. Very easy to grow. Grows in full sun with shade from hot direct burning sunlight. A smaller banana plant well suited for indoor use, since this is a excellent container-plant. Musa species enjoy a rich soil and regular applications of fertilizer during the Spring and Summer. Keep well watered during hot periods; do not let dry out between waterings.