Musa acuminata

Musa acuminata is a species of banana native to Southeast Asia. Its common names include the wild banana or edible banana. This species is one of the progenitors of the modern banana cultivars.

Taxonomy

The Musa acuminata belongs to the genus Musa, in the family Musaceae. The species was first described by the Italian botanist Luigi Aloysius Colla in 1820. The species name acuminata refers to the long, tapering shape of the banana fruit.

Description

Musa acuminata is a large, perennial herb, reaching up to 6 meters in height. The plant has a pseudostem made from tightly packed leaf sheaths. The leaves are large, up to 3 meters long and 60 cm wide. The flowers are arranged in a large, hanging inflorescence. The fruits are elongated, slightly curved, and yellow when ripe.

Distribution and habitat

Musa acuminata is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It grows in a variety of habitats, from sea level up to 1,200 meters in elevation. It prefers well-drained soils and a humid, tropical climate.

Cultivation and uses

Musa acuminata is one of the two wild species, along with Musa balbisiana, that were hybridized to create the modern banana cultivars. The fruit of Musa acuminata is edible and is a major source of food in many tropical countries. The plant is also used for its ornamental value in gardens and parks.

See also

• Banana
• Musa
• Musa balbisiana
• Banana cultivar groups

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