Yellow has long been associated with the image of ripe bananas. But this fruit also has many variations with colorful colors and strange appearances.
Banana varieties that are not yellow in the world
1. Dacca red banana
The red banana variety is also known as Dacca red banana. This type of banana is commonly found in Australia, with a smaller size and thicker skin than the regular type. However, the banana flesh is softer and sweeter.
The red banana on the tree is green when small, but when it begins to reach the size of a thumb, it will gradually turn a very beautiful red color. The price of this unique red banana is quite high, and is considered one of the “money-making” specialties for indigenous people.
2. Musa Velutina pink banana
Pink banana (scientific name: Musa velutina) is a species of flowering plant in the Musaceae family. This species was first scientifically described by Dr. H. Wendl in 1875.
Pink bananas grow quickly, often flowering and bearing fruit within the first year. Banana trees can reach a height of 3 – 6 meters with a wide canopy. In the summer, it produces bright pink flowers, and then the bananas are also pink. However, when the banana ripens, it will gradually turn reddish brown.
3. Blue java green banana
Blue Java banana trees can grow to an average height of 4.5m – 6m.The banana variety called Blue Java originates from Hawaii island and some areas in Australia and still retains its green color when the banana tree is ripe. However, when ripe bananas will still turn yellow like any regular banana tree.
According to indigenous people, Blue Java bananas have a very sweet and tangy flavor, described as exactly like vanilla ice cream.
4. Ae Ae striped banana
If Ae Ae bananas did not grow in chambers like this, many people would surely think it was… a green striped melon because of its identical appearance. Even the leaves of this banana tree have white and green streaks “unlike anyone else”. Because it is difficult to live in many places, plus a slightly bitter taste that is difficult to eat, Ae Ae bananas are listed as “rare and hard to find” in the banana family.
5. Rhino horn banana
Rhino horn banana (Rhyno Horn) is a hybrid banana variety between Musa balbisiana and Musa acuminata , originating from Africa. Its characteristics are long, curved, edible green bananas that can grow to a length of about 60cm, the longest of any banana variety in the world.
Rhino horn bananas can be eaten raw or cooked. They are also grown as ornamental plants because of their strange appearance.