How to Grow and Care for Musa

Edible banana (Musa acuminata) is an edible evergreen perennial plant native to Southwest Asia. Some people may perceive edible banana to be a tree, but it is a perennial plant. Edible banana is one of the earlier domesticated plants by humans in the history of evolution. The cultivation of these plants for fruit is a major industry. They are also cultivated as ornamental plants.

Hardy banana (Musa basjoo) is a cold-hardy banana plant that produces inedible bananas, but is prized for its ornamental foliage. Native to Japan, it can grow in North America as far north as New England if it's mulched to keep its roots warm.

Pink banana is a wild banana species that is thought to be a trendy ornamental plant due to its unusual vibrant pink bananas and luscious green leaves. It is grown in indoor spaces such as greenhouses and conservatories in colder climates and outdoors in warmer regions.

Banana is a popular fruit with a rich history dating back centuries. The fruit’s sweet taste is easily identifiable, and it is a staple food in several countries. The tree is grown commercially in warm climate regions and private gardens and is recognizable by its large leaves and oblong-shaped fruits.

Banana is an ancestor of the widely cultivated banana species. However, this species is inedible due to its seeds and differs from the other banana species in its more upright stature. This plant is highly resistant to abiotic stresses. The luscious leaves have historically been used for crafting and packaging.