Hardy in zones 9-11, thrives as a dramatic container specimen or in-ground tropical focal point in frost-free climates Massive burgundy-flushed paddle leaves can reach 6 feet long, creating instant resort-style architecture from spring through fall Rockets upward at an impressive rate in warm weather, unfurling a new enormous leaf every 7 to 10 days with adequate moisture and feeding Solitary growth habit means no spreading or suckers to manage, keeping this tropical beauty contained and tidy in your landscape design
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Understanding Our Container Sizes
At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.
Container Sizes
Quart
Plant age: 6 months to 1 year Best for:Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.
#1 Container
Plant age: 1 to 2 years Best for:Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.
#2 Container
Plant age: 2 to 3 years Best for:Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.
#3 Container
Plant age: 3 to 4 years Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.
#5 Container and Larger
Plant age: 4 to 5+ years Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.
Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?
Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.
Root Pouch Containers
Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.
There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:
Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.
Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.
Sunlight: Full sun produces the deepest burgundy coloring and fastest growth. In hot desert climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, choose a bright south or west-facing window where the plant receives at least six hours of direct light daily.
Soil: Rich, well-draining soil loaded with organic matter is essential. Mix compost or aged manure into your planting area, and aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. For containers, use a quality potting mix with added perlite to ensure excellent drainage. This tropical plant loves consistent moisture but will quickly develop root rot if left sitting in waterlogged soil.
Watering Requirements
Water deeply two to three times per week during the active growing season from late spring through summer, keeping the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Check the top two to three inches of soil before watering to avoid overwatering. In fall and winter, reduce watering frequency as growth naturally slows but never allow the soil to dry out completely. Inconsistent watering leads to brown leaf edges and stunted growth.
Pruning Tips
Remove old leaves at the base with sharp scissors or a knife as they yellow and fade, which keeps the plant looking tidy and directs energy to new growth. Leave several healthy leaves intact until frost to maximize photosynthesis and strengthen the root system. In zones below 9, cut the foliage back to six inches after the first frost if you plan to overwinter the plant indoors or store the dormant corm in a cool, dark location.
Fertilizer Needs
Feed every two to three weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer or apply a slow-release granular fertilizer four times per year. Red Banana is a heavy feeder that responds dramatically to regular nutrition with faster growth and richer leaf color. Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy as this encourages weak growth when the plant should be resting.
Delivery and Shipping
Shipping Rates
Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected
Under $50
$9.99
$50 - $99.99
$14.99
$100 - $149.99
$16.99
$150 - $198.99
$24.99
$199+
FREE
✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee
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Extend your plant protection to a full year with Growing & Glowing Guarantee Plus.
Every plant already includes our free 45-day guarantee. Adding Plus at checkout gives you extended coverage for properly planted and cared-for plants.
What you get:
Full store credit for the cost of your plant
Free shipping on your replacement order
Coverage for a full year from delivery
To file a claim: Send photos to support@naturehills.com or use our live chat.
Not covered: Improper planting, weather extremes, pest or wildlife damage, or plants outside their recommended zone. Annuals, bulbs, grass plugs, and hard goods are not eligible.
