Musa acuminata aka Dwarf Banana
Taxonomy
Musa acuminata is an edible species of banana native to Southern Asia, with its range spanning the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Believed to have first appeared as a mutant tall variety in a 'Chinese Cavendish' plantation in Australia in 1910, it soon replaced 'Chinese Cavendish' worldwide, and was introduced in Hawaii in 1953, becoming the third most popular banana in the backyard there. One of the earliest domesticated plants, humans have been adoring bananas, particularly the clones of the Cavendish variety, for over 10,000 years! Its leaves, fruits, and flowers are a delight and are used in breakfast to dessert. These potassium-rich fruits are a staple crop in Central America.
Common names
Dwarf Banana, Cavendish Banana, Chinese Banana, Edible BananaHow to care for Dwarf Banana
Difficulty
Dwarf Banana presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Dwarf Banana should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Dwarf Banana loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Dwarf Banana prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Dwarf Banana is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Humidity
The Dwarf Banana is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.
Growth-pattern
Dwarf Banana grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Dwarf Banana’s native range is Tropical and Subtropical Asia to the West Pacific.
Flower
Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Dwarf Banana blooming.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Musa Genus
Musa textilis Abaca
Musa itinerans Yunnan Banana
Musa paradisiaca Banana
Musa acuminata sumatrana 'Zebrina Rojo'
Musa velutina Pink Velvet Banana
Musa coccinea Scarlet Banana
Musa acuminata Dwarf Banana
Musa thomsonii Musa
Musa sikkimensis Darjeeling Banana
