Rare Banana Species Found Around the World- with Images

Bananas are beloved fruits enjoyed by people worldwide for their delicious taste and numerous health benefits. While most of us are familiar with the commonly available banana varieties, there is a captivating world of rare banana species that exist across the globe. These lesser-known species exhibit unique characteristics, flavors, and even colors that are worth exploring. In this article, we delve into the fascinating diversity of rare banana species found around the world, showcasing the remarkable variety that nature has to offer.

Red Banana:

Red bananas are a group of banana varieties with reddish-purple skin. They come in different sizes, with some being smaller and plumper than the common Cavendish banana. When ripe, their flesh is cream to light pink and softer and sweeter compared to yellow bananas.

Some have a slight raspberry flavor, while others have an earthy taste. These bananas are exported from regions like East Africa, Asia, South America, and the United Arab Emirates. They are popular in Central America and India, where they are believed to have aphrodisiac and fertility-promoting properties. Red bananas are enjoyed worldwide.

Blue Java Banana (Musa acuminata x balbisiana):

Also known as the Ice Cream banana, the Blue Java banana is a unique species notable for its pale blue-green peel and velvety texture. Originating from Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea, it has a mild, creamy flavor reminiscent of vanilla ice cream. This cultivar is highly sought after for its unusual appearance and delectable taste, making it a true delight for banana connoisseurs.

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Rhino Horn Banana (Musa paradisiaca):

Hailing from West Africa and the Caribbean, the Horn Plantain Banana is a rare banana species with a distinctive horn-like shape, hence its name. This cultivar is typically larger than regular bananas and has a starchy texture, making it an ideal ingredient for cooking. It is commonly used in traditional dishes, providing a unique flavor and texture that adds depth to various culinary creations.

Apple Banana (Musa acuminata x balbisiana):

The Manzano banana, also known as the Apple banana, is a small, squat variety native to Central America. Its name, derived from the Spanish word for apple, reflects its characteristic apple-like flavor. With a rich sweetness and hints of strawberry or pineapple, the Manzano banana offers a unique taste experience that sets it apart from more common banana varieties.

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Goldfinger Banana (Musa acuminata x balbisiana):

Originating from Honduras, the Goldfinger banana is a rare cultivar that stands out with its golden-yellow skin. Its firm texture and sweet, tangy flavor make it an excellent choice for both fresh consumption and cooking. This variety is known for its resistance to diseases, making it a favored option among farmers seeking hardy and versatile banana species.

Praying hands Banana

Praying Hands bananas are a unique variety characterized by their distinctive shape resembling hands folded in prayer. They have a creamy texture and a sweet flavor. These rare bananas are highly sought after for their novelty and make for an intriguing addition to fruit displays and culinary creations.

While the commonly available banana varieties have their charm, the world of rare banana species offers a captivating exploration into the diversity of flavors, colors, and textures that nature has to offer. From the visually stunning Red Dacca to the uniquely flavored Blue Java, these rare species showcase the remarkable range of banana cultivars found across the globe.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes red bananas different from common yellow bananas?

Ans. Red bananas have reddish-purple skin, a cream to light pink flesh, and are softer and sweeter compared to yellow bananas. Some may have a slight raspberry flavor or an earthy taste.

2. Are red bananas popular in any specific regions?

Ans. Red bananas are particularly popular in Central America and India, where they are believed to have aphrodisiac and fertility-promoting properties.

3. What is the flavor profile of the Blue Java banana?

Ans. The Blue Java banana, also known as the Ice Cream banana, has a mild, creamy flavor reminiscent of vanilla ice cream. It is highly sought after for its unique taste.

4. What distinguishes Praying Hands bananas?

Ans. Praying Hands bananas are unique due to their distinctive shape resembling hands folded in prayer. They have a creamy texture and a sweet flavor, making them a sought-after choice for their novelty.

5. What is the special characteristic of the Rhino Horn Banana?

Ans. The Rhino Horn Banana, originating from West Africa and the Caribbean, has a distinctive horn-like shape, making it larger than regular bananas. It is commonly used in traditional dishes for its unique flavor and texture.