return to: checklist; keys; family Musaceae
Giant
herb from below-ground rhizome; "trunk" formed of overlapping
leaf sheaths; leaves alternate, simple; leaf blades oblong; inflorescence
emerging from the center of the overlapping leaf sheaths, arching
downwards; pistillate flowers proximal, staminate flowers distal;
fruit the familiar banana.
Additional images:
Leaves and unripe fruits have a high tannin content responsible for both astringent and antibiotic properties of the plant. Decoctions of the leaves have been used as a mouthwash to treat gum disease or swallowed as a vermifuge. Listed as an important source of pollen and/or nectar for bees (Souza Novello 1981, Suarez Molina 1981).
