Banana and Plantains

Edward Evans and Fredy Ballen

Carlos F. Balerdi, Jonathan H. Crane, andCarlos F. Balerdi

Bananas are vigorously growing, monocotyledonous herbaceous plants. There are two species of banana, Musa acuminata and M. balbisiana, and most banana cultivars are hybrids of these species. Banana cultivars vary greatly in plant and fruit size, plant morphology, fruit quality, and disease and insect resistance. Most bananas have a sweet flavor when ripe; exceptions to this are cooking bananas and plantains.

Edward F. Gilman, Deborah Hilbert, Edward F. Gilman, Dennis G. Watson, Ryan Klein, Andrew Koeser, Deborah R. Hilbert, andDrew C. McLean

Edward F. Gilman , Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of Musa rosa, commonly known as banana. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its height, spread, and growth habit. The document highlights the plant’s adaptability to various soil types and environmental conditions, such as extended flooding and different soil pH levels. It also outlines the plant’s uses in landscaping, emphasizing its ornamental features and tropical effect. Additionally, the document notes that Musa rosa is not native to North America and has invasive potential. Original publication date September 1999.