Everything you need to know about the banana plant

Everything you need to know about the Banana plant

Unfortunately, the holiday is over and it's time to get back to work. But don't worry, at Greenbubble we have various tropical houseplants that allow you to keep the vacation feeling alive right at home. There’s no better way to bring those exotic holiday vibes into your home than with a banana plant. While we picture ourselves relaxing under the large green leaves of this exotic plant, with sunglasses on and a cocktail in hand, this green beauty is much more than just a decorative addition to your space. Read on to learn eight fun facts about this popular tropical houseplant. Who knows, you might fall for its charms and find yourself enjoying the ultimate tropical holiday feeling, right at home.

How did it get its name?

While many plant names are derived from Latin, this tropical plant is not one of them. The official name of the Banana Plant, ‘Musa’, comes from the Arabic word “Mauz.” This is derived from the word “Muz,” which means fruit in ancient Persian. A rather fitting name for this tropical plant. Often, a banana plant is also called a banana tree. Although it’s not technically a tree, the stems of the Musa plant form a false trunk because they overlap each other. This false trunk gives the appearance of a tree. The key word here is "appearance." It’s still very much a tropical plant. Actually, the best way to refer to it is simply as Musa. The banana plant is not a fruiting plant after all. While we might quickly think that the Musa is a fruiting plant due to its delicious bananas, nothing could be further from the truth. The banana plant is, in fact, the largest herbaceous plant in the world!

Origin of the Banana plant

To find the origin of the first banana plants, we have to go way back in time. This tropical plant is one of the oldest commercially cultivated houseplants, dating all the way back to the 6th century! Back then, the first official banana plantation was found in Costa Rica, but today this green beauty can be found all over the world. After all, everyone wants to enjoy those delicious yellow fruits of this plant.

The Banana Plant

While the plant is popular worldwide for its yellow fruits, bananas can also actually grow on your very own banana plant. However, you’ll need a bit of patience because it can take over three years! A slight disappointment… the bananas that grow on your own banana tree are not recommended for eating. Because taking care of this tropical houseplant requires some attention, you might end up using chemical pesticides or certain nutrients to keep this green beauty looking pristine. Since these products are only meant for the plant and our bodies don’t appreciate them, it’s better to leave the bananas as decoration. So unfortunately, if you’re really craving bananas for your morning yogurt or as a snack, you’ll have to make a trip to the supermarket. By the way, did you know that the banana is the second most eaten fruit in the Netherlands?

Functionality of the Banana Plant

In addition to being popular worldwide for its yellow fruits, the leaves of this plant are also highly valued in some countries. For instance, the enormous, strong leaves are used in East Asia to cover roofs or serve food. A truly multifunctional plant, indeed.

Air-Purifying properties

While we may not use the banana plant to cover roofs or serve food, the decorative leaves of the Musa do have a functional purpose for us. The large leaves of the banana plant have a strong air-purifying effect. This means the Musa produces extra oxygen and breaks down harmful substances. Did you know that this is stress-reducing and beneficial for your productivity and creativity? So, it makes for the perfect companion for working from home.

The Banana plant and health

Not only does the banana plant contribute to our health with its air-purifying qualities, but the leaves of the Musa also contain a natural antioxidant (EGCG). The leaves of this houseplant can soothe an irritated spot, and adding the antioxidant to your food can turn a meal into something even healthier. By steaming, baking, or grilling the leaf, the EGCG is released, giving you an extra healthy meal. If you’re not exactly a Gordon Ramsay or simply feel it’s a waste to use your plant, you can also buy the leaves at a supermarket.

A bold appearance

Do you prefer a perfectly flawless houseplant? Then the Musa might not be exactly what you’re looking for. The banana plant has character, with ragged leaves featuring tears and cracks. It’s a truly lively plant that wants to reflect this. It’s a bold plant that fits perfectly into an industrial interior.

The Banana plant and pets

What could be more fun than enjoying a tropical holiday feeling in your own home? Enjoying it together with your pets, of course! The banana plant is the perfect tropical houseplant for this. The Musa is non-toxic, making it safe for your pets. Even if your loyal four-legged friend takes a little nibble, they’ll just be left with a bad taste in their mouth.

Fallen for the Banana plant?

With its bold leaves and exotic look, this tropical plant is becoming increasingly popular. Have you also fallen for the charms of this exotic houseplant and want to bring that tropical vibe into your home? Then order one online from Greenbubble and give it a nice spot in your house. Throw on your swim trunks, grab a cocktail, and working from home will never feel more like a vacation.