Quote:
Originally Posted by gnappi
I like smaller stature bananas under six feet if possible. I'd like a compact red banana that won't go off growing the roots like a buried Buick under fences and walkways. I have two yellow dwarfs (supposedly cavendish but I'm doubtful) that produce nicely, grow slowly and don't invade where several other bananas I had (cut from the Earth) and took over the yard.
So aside from recommendations on cultivar, and place to buy one thing is bothering me about red bananas.
I bought a small bunch (they were very dark maroon) today to see if I liked them and the one I opened was a long way from being ripe.
How the heck do you tell when a red banana is ripe :-)
|
I don't think you'll find a red cultivar that is consistently under 6 feet, but Dwarf Red doesn't get too tall. Mine have been 7' to 9.5' when the flower -- and my plants tend to get taller than average, I think because they are planted too close and so are searching for light. Aside from being on the slower side when it comes to production, it's a well behaved plant -- not an aggressive, invasive gower like some (e.g., Namwah).
Definitely get some fruit from Keith if you can to be sure you like the flavor. They do taste unique. Some folks love the flavor, some don't care for it.