Musaceae

Musa species

Common Names: Seeded banana

Plant Form: Very large herb. Size: Up to 10 m tall. Stem: Thick, green, considered a ‘pseudo-stem’ as it is composed of tightly packed sheaths. A stem develops within this pseudo-stem. Leaves: Very large and broad blades. Easily torn by the wind, giving frond-like appearance. Grow out of sheaths on stem. Flowers: A single large ‘banana heart’ which grows out of the stem within the pseudo-stem. Fruit and Seeds: Very similar to commercial bananas, but with many seeds within. Habitat: Forests, paddocks, old gardens, riparian areas. Distinguishing Features: Note there are two native species of Banana, Musa banksii and Musa jackeyi native to Queensland.