Exploring the Diverse Varieties: Different Types of Banana Trees

When most people think of bananas they picture the sweet, curved yellow fruits found in grocery stores. But there are actually over 1000 different cultivated varieties of banana trees worldwide!

From compact dwarf trees to towering plantains, the banana family contains an astonishing range of shapes, sizes, flavors, and uses. By exploring the different types of banana trees, you can discover new tastes and gardening possibilities.

Overview of Banana Tree Types

The two main species of cultivated banana trees are

• Musa acuminata – The most common dessert banana, including Cavendish and Lady Finger varieties. Typically sweet fruits.

• Musa balbisiana – Starchier, plantain varieties used for cooking. More disease resistant.

But through hybridization between these species and their subspecies, many banana varieties have been created. Here are some of the most popular:

Edible Banana Trees

• Banana Plant (Musa acuminata) – The classic banana plant produces sweet, creamy fruits. Can reach over 30 feet tall.

• Double Mahoi (Musa hybrid) – A sturdy tree producing flavorful yellow fruits in compact bunches.

• Grand Nain (Musa acuminata ‘Grand Nain’) – A dwarf banana cultivar that bears large, tasty fruits. Grows under 10 feet.

• Blue Java (Musa acuminata x balbisiana ‘Blue Java’) – Fruits have a sweet vanilla-like flavor and blueish peeled. Cold hardy.

• Dwarf Sumatrana (Musa hybrid) – A compactgrower reaching 5 feet, with plump pinkish fruits. Does well in containers.

Ornamental Banana Trees

Many banana varieties are grown for their exotic ornamental appeal and huge foliage:

• Abyssinian Banana (Musa ensete) – Dramatic glossy leaves on 15 foot plants. Hardy to zone 7.

• Cuban Red Banana (Musa acuminata) – Striking dark red leaves and pink fruits. Prefers warm zones 9-11.

• Musa Velutina – Fuzzy pinkish leaves make a bold statement. 20 foot height at maturity.

• Japanese Fiber Banana (Musa basjoo) – 18 foot clumps of wide, green leaves. Cold hardy to zone 5.

• Zebrina Banana (Musa ornata) – Unique pink and green striped leaves. Maxes out around 5 feet tall.

Plantain Banana Trees

Plantains are starchier cooking bananas that need to be cooked before eating. Popular varieties include:

• French Horn Plantain – Robust grower producing very large fruits. Ripens from green to black.

• Dwarf French Plantain – A compact plantain cultivar reaching just 6 feet tall. Good for containers.

• Pisang Kelat – Sweet, thick-skinned fruits grow in pink bunches. Tolerates partial shade.

• Pisang Raja – Resists fungus diseases. Fruits are mild and starchier when raw.

• Mysore Plantain – Extremely hardy and pest/disease resistant. Produces heavy bunches.

Discovering New Banana Tree Varieties

Part of the fun of growing bananas is trying new and interesting varieties. Many specialty nurseries now offer exotic banana cultivars beyond basic Cavendish and plantains.

By planting a diverse banana tree collection, you can enjoy an array of flavors – from vanilla to strawberry to apple. And mix ornamental varieties with edible ones for a stunning tropical display.

Some interesting banana types to look for include:

• Manzano – Delicious apple-flavored fruits ideal for juicing or eating fresh.

• Red Dacca – Striking dark red fruits with a raspberry hint.

• Praying Hands – Unusual fused fruit shape and creamy taste.

• Ice Cream – Thick, creamy fruits live up to their name!

Let your imagination go bananas with all the different banana tree varieties out there! Discover new types by their taste, appearance, uses and growing traits. Any banana lover is sure to find inspiration.