Banana

Banana Overview

Musa is a genus of around 40 of evergreen perennial species in the Musaceae family, commonly known as Bananas. They spread by suckering, and are characterised by their large paddle-shaped leaves that form a false (pseudo) stem. Tubular flowers are produced alongside broad, coloured bracts in pendant spikes, later developing to cylindrical fruits. Although they can grow as high as trees, Musa species are not woody and are technically giant herbs. The most familiar species in cultivation are bananas, grown for their edible fruits, but ornamental varieties are also popular in gardens where they need winter protection in colder regions. Most plants in this genus are tender and won't cope well with freezing temperatures.