Blue Java banana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Musa 'Blue Java' |
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| Hybrid parentage | Musa acuminata × balbisiana |
| Cultivar group | ABB Group |
| Cultivar | 'Blue Java' |
| Origin | Southeast Asia down to Northern Australia |
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The Blue Java banana is a special type of banana. People also call it the Ice Cream banana or blue banana. This is because its fruit is super sweet and tastes a bit like vanilla ice cream! It even has a creamy texture, just like ice cream.
This amazing banana comes from Southeast Asia. It's a mix of two different banana types, Musa balbisiana and Musa acuminata. The Blue Java banana is also tough and can handle colder weather better than many other bananas.
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What's in a Name?
The Blue Java banana has a scientific name that helps scientists know exactly what it is. Its full name is Musa acuminata × balbisiana (ABB Group) 'Blue Java.
But around the world, it has many fun nicknames!
- In Hawaii, it's known as the 'Ice Cream banana'.
- In Fiji, people call it the 'Hawaiian banana'.
- In the Philippines, it's called 'Krie'.
- In Central America, it's known as 'Cenizo'.
About the Blue Java Plant
Blue Java banana plants can grow quite tall, reaching about 4.5 to 6 meters (15–20 feet) high. They are strong plants, with sturdy stems and roots. This helps them stand up to windy weather.
The leaves of the Blue Java plant have a cool, silvery-green color.
The Unique Fruit
The bananas grow in small bunches, usually with seven to nine "hands" (groups of bananas). Each banana is about 18 to 23 cm (7–9 inches) long.
When they are not ripe, these bananas have a very special silvery-blue color. This is why they are sometimes called "blue bananas"! As they ripen, they turn a pale yellow. Inside, the fruit is white and creamy.
It takes about 15 to 24 months for the plant to start growing fruit after it's planted. Once the fruit appears, it's ready to pick in about 115 to 150 days.
How People Use Blue Java Bananas
Blue Java bananas are very popular because of their delicious taste. You can eat them fresh, just like any other banana. They are known for their sweet, vanilla-like, custard flavor. Many people enjoy them with ice cream because of their similar taste and texture.
These plants are also used for decoration. Their unusual blue color, large size, and ability to grow in cooler places make them a great choice for gardens. They can even provide nice shade!
Keeping Blue Java Plants Healthy
Like all plants, Blue Java bananas can sometimes get sick or have pests.
Common Pests
- Borers: These are small insects that can tunnel into the plant.
- Grasshoppers: These insects can chew on the leaves.
- Root-knot nematodes: These are tiny worms that can harm the roots.
Common Diseases
- Panama disease: This is a serious fungus that can make banana plants wilt and die.
- Black sigatoka: This is another fungus that causes black spots on the leaves, making it harder for the plant to grow.
