August 20, 2005
Question: I brought this plant, Musca Zebrina Rojo, for its striking variegated color. The plant is in a container on an east-facing lanai, but gets full sun all day. It is thriving, but the leaf tops are now solid green. Is it water or sun that has changed the color?
Karen T., Estero
Answer: This plant is also known as the Red Banana. Ornamental bananas and their close relative the heliconias are native to the humid tropics where they grow as understory plants. Even in botanical gardens in the tropics heliconias and banana-like plants are almost always grown under shade for their best performance. Variegated plants, leaf with several color tones, are often sold as ornamental foliage plants. In some cases, increasing light increases color contrast on leaves of certain species. However, in the case of this Musca, exposing it to such prolonged and intense sunlight is contrary to its natural settings. While it may grow well, contrasting hues may blend and it becomes just another green plant. Move the plant to a more shady location. Increase watering, make sure the pot drains freely, and add several tablespoons of a slow-release fertilizer.
Stephen Brown is a horticulture agent with the Lee County Extension.
To submit questions call the horticulture desk at 461-7504 between 9 a.m. and 4
p.m. or via e-mail at
shb@mail.ifas.ufl.edu. Listen to the ‘Garden Show’ at 8 a.m. on
1200-AM WINK/WNOG.