Pink banana
Musa velutina

Family: Musaceae

What it is like

A banana plant with underground stems. It grows 1.5 m high. The leaves are dark green and 1 m long. They are paler underneath. The flowers are pale yellow or white and the bracts are red. They stick upright. The fruit are bright pink. They are velvety. The fruit split when ripe. They have hard, round seeds. The fruit are edible.

There are about 30 Musa species. Musa dasycarpa may be the correct name.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It needs regular moisture and humidity. It needs fertile, well drained soil. It needs an acid pH. It needs full or part sun. It cannot tolerate strong winds or salt exposure. It suits hardiness zones 9-12.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Brazil, Central America, Colombia, Costa Rica, Hawaii, Himalayas, India (country/location of origin), Malaysia, Myanmar, Northeastern India, Pacific, Philippines, Puerto Rico, SE Asia, South America, Thailand, USA

How it is used for food

The flowers and young stems are cooked as a vegetable. The fresh flowers can be stored for 8-10 days. They are also used for chutney.

It is sold in local markets.

Edible parts

Fruit, flowers, stems, seeds

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seeds or suckers.

Its other names

Local names

Anye kolok, Doge kopak, Gam nachang vui, Gumjui, Gunjai, Laishrimdi, Pisang berbulu, Pisang cadak, Pisang jambon, Ramkal, Ram thailir, Self-peeling banana, Velvet banana

Synonyms

Musa dasycarpa Kurz.;