Research indicates that Musa sp. 'Siam Ruby' originated in Papua New Guinea as a sport of Musa 'Tapo', where bananas have been cultivated for 10,000 years. They are a smaller variety of banana plant and can reach about 8' tall only. The leaves are a stunning, dark ruby red with tiny green flecks...the more sun, the more intense the color. This is one banana that loves intense heat and humidity, so put it directly in that western or otherwise super sunny window and keep it evenly moist (but not sopping wet!) at the root zone for best results.
Although many species of banana can be grown successfully outdoors in the Bay Area, we do not recommend this variety for outdoor gardeners in the fog belt of SF. Warmer microclimates in the Bay Area may have better results.
