BananaFamily

Plantain, scientifically known as Musa × paradisiaca, is a tropical fruit closely related to the banana. Unlike bananas, plantains are usually larger, have thicker skin, and are typically consumed cooked rather than raw. Plantains are a staple food in many tropical regions and are valued for their versatility in cooking. The plantain plant is a large, herbaceous plant that can grow up to 10 to 20 feet tall. It has a thick, sturdy pseudostem made up of tightly packed leaf sheaths. The leaves are large, broad, and bright green, often reaching several feet in length. The plant produces a large inflorescence, or flower cluster, from which the fruit develops. Each plantain plant can produce a single bunch of fruit before it dies, but new plants will sprout from the underground rhizome, continuing the cycle.