Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii' (Red banana, Abyssinian banana, Ethiopian banana)

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This bulbous perennial has striking reddish purple, strap-like leaves and foot-long purple flowers that resemble pineapples in late summer. Grow in a sunny border, container, or greenhouse. Plants used outdoors may be overwintered in a frost-free location. The species is native to South Africa.

This tuberous plant dazzles the eye with its deep purple-black leaves and brilliant summer blooms. The 4- to 6-inch-round flowers display red petals and deep purple and yellow centers, which are accentuated by the dark foliage. Its stems are the perfect addition to cut-flower arrangements.

A reliable and prolific bloomer, 'Bashful' sports petals with colors that combine handsomely with their golden stamens. The blooms have a velvety texture and are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. Of relatively short stature, 'Bashful' should be planted near the front of a bed, where it will send up an endless succession of richly hued blooms.

'Myrtle's Folly' has one of the more complex blooms you will ever see on a dahlia. The flowers—a dense ball of narrow, irregular, twisted petals of deep pink and light orange—gradually mature to reveal a yellow center. Though slightly ungainly as a border plant, 'Myrtle's Folly' provides a steady supply of wonderful cut flowers that look lovely in a vase, where the frilly, candy-colored concoction of peach and pink can be enjoyed at close quarters.