Riverbanks Volume XXVIII, Number 3 - Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

Chris Spearen, Garden Senior Horticulturist
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Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurellii’
“Delicious plum-purple leaves distinguish this banana from
its more common green counterparts. This banana usually
only forms a single pseudostem, so it won’t spread rapidly
out of its delegated area. As an added bonus, the leaves of
Ensete are of a stronger substance and don’t get the wind
damage that makes other bananas look ‘shredded’.”
Aesculus pavia – Red Buckeye
“This unpretentious, native small tree is just one of many
buck-eye species. This species erupts in the spring with
tropical-like foliage followed by clusters of red, salvia-like
flowers. After deciduously leaving its leaves behind in
September, the fruits mature into the lucky seeds for which
this plant is named.”
Chris Mable, Zoo Senior Horticulturist
Buddleia sp.
“A great shrub—blooms early summer to frost, attracts
butterflies and hummingbirds. The cultivar ‘Honeycomb’
did fantastic in the garden last year.”
Meta Whitlock, Garden Horticulturist
Alocasia ‘Portadora’
Upright Elephant Ear
“This is an amazing plant that will grow up to 8 feet tall if
not much taller. I bet most people’s reaction is, ‘Wow that’s
a ... huge leaf! Gosh, that’s cool.’ This is a good fast-growing
plant that requires sun to part sun and adequate water.
This plant is a true winner and a must-have for any avid
gardener.” J.C. Sallee, Garden Horticulturist
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