Basjoo... or not?
 

Hi guys, first post, but I'm looking forward to being around a lot more. Big fan of bananas (as much as I can be in SC anyway) and have an ID question.

I was told that all the bananas I put in the ground this year were basjoo. But looking at some of the trunks, they just don't look the same. I started with one last year and enjoyed it so much, I figured another 15 or so in the back would be nice. But I'm definitely noticing some differences in trunk/pseudostem and color.

Here's the two above (on the right) and my original on the left. The funny thing about the original is it's odd color. I've had some say it could be a nutrient deficiency (which might explain it's crazy pup production), but I'm curious what you all think.



Thanks so much for any help,
John

Re: Basjoo... or not?
 

Anyone? I'm hoping I don't have to dig up a bunch of these guys; would love to confirm if they are basjoo.

Re: Basjoo... or not?
 

They both appear to be M. basjoo. M. basjoo does not have any wax on the plant at all, whereas many bananas will have waxy pseudostems, petioles and abaxial leaf surfaces, and they also have winged petioles. Both of your pictures show these characteristics, and there aren't any common banana plants that be easily confused with M. basjoo.

Re: Basjoo... or not?
 

Thanks, looks like their label was correct then. Now I don't have to dig them up to be safe.