Rhino Horn banana
| Musa 'African Rhino Horn' | |
|---|---|
| Hybrid parentage | Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana |
| Cultivar group | AAB Group (Plantain Group) |
| Cultivar | 'African Rhino Horn' |
| Origin | Africa |
Rhino Horn bananas, also called Rhino Horn plantains or African Rhino Horn, are hybrid banana cultivars from Africa. It produces strongly curved and elongated edible bananas which can grow to a length of two feet, making them have the longest fruits among banana cultivars.
Taxonomy
The Rhino Horn banana is a triploid (AAB Group, commonly known as Horn plantains) hybrid of the seeded banana Musa balbisiana and Musa acuminata.[1]
Its official designation is Musa acuminata × balbisiana (AAB Group) 'African Rhino Horn'.
Description
Rhino Horn banana plants can grow to a height of 12 to 20 feet.[2][3] The pseudostem and leaves are dappled red.
Rhino Horn bananas have the longest fruits among banana cultivars, reaching up to 2 feet in length,[3] though they normally only reach lengths of 12 to 14 inches. They produce two to four hands per bunch.[4]
Uses
Fruits of the Rhino Horn bananas can be eaten raw or cooked. They are also cultivated as ornamental plants for their attractive coloration.[3]
Pests and diseases
Common pests
- Borers
- Grasshoppers
- Root Nematodes
Common diseases
- Panama disease
- Black Sigatoka
See also
References
- ^ Michel H. Porcher; Prof. Snow Barlow (2002-07-19). "Sorting Musa names". The University of Melbourne, [1]. Retrieved 11 January 2011.
{{cite web}}: External link in|publisher= - ^ Tropical Fruit Information
- ^ a b c Musa 'African Rhino Horn'
- ^ Encanto Farms: Plantains
