Banana plant

Banana plant is a large, herbaceous perennial known for its massive leaves and delicious fruits. Despite its tree-like appearance, it is technically a giant herb (not a true tree) because it lacks woody tissue.

Botanical Description

1. Growth Habit

• Type: Herbaceous perennial (not a true tree).

• Height:

  • Dwarf varieties: 4–7 ft (e.g., Musa ‘Super Dwarf Cavendish’).

  • Standard varieties: 10–30 ft (e.g., Musa acuminata – Cavendish banana).

• Spread: 6–15 ft (leaf canopy).

• Growth Rate: Very fast (can reach full height in 9–12 months).

• Lifespan: Each stem (pseudostem) dies after fruiting, but new shoots replace it.

2. Leaves

• Shape: Large, elongated, paddle-shaped.

• Size: 5–9 ft long, 1–2 ft wide (one of the largest leaves in the plant kingdom).

• Color: Bright green (some varieties have red or variegated leaves).

• Texture: Smooth but easily torn by wind.