maroon-stem banana
Musa banksii F.Muell.
Musa banksii is a wild banana species native to New Guinea and Queensland, Australia, and possibly introduced to Samoa. First described by Ferdinand von Mueller in 1863, its taxonomic status has varied over time. Initially recognized as a distinct species, it was later considered a subspecies of Musa acuminata by Ernest E. Cheesman in 1948 and Norman Simmonds in 1957. However, in 1976, George Argent reclassified it as a separate species.
Description
Musa banksii belongs to the Musaceae family and is known as the maroon-stem banana. It is found in New Guinea, Queensland, and likely Samoa. The species was first documented in 1863 by Ferdinand von Mueller based on specimens from Queensland. Over the following decades, its classification has been debated among taxonomists. While some have grouped it with Musa acuminata, others have maintained its status as a distinct species. The plant is part of the wild banana group and contributes to the genetic diversity of the Musa genus.
Other common names
Maroon-stemmed Bananamaroon-stem bananawild banananative banana
Distribution
Global · New Guinea · Queensland · Samoa
Synonyms
Musa acuminata subsp. banksiiMusa banksianaMusa banksii var. samoensisMusa charlioiMusa banksii var. banksii
