Musa lawitiensis var lawitiensis

Musa lawitiensis is a species of wild banana (genus Musa), native to the island of Borneo (both the Indonesian and Malaysian portions). It is placed in section Callimusa (now including the former section Australimusa), having a diploid chromosome number of 2n = 20.

Musa lawitiensis var lawitiensis is re-described based on fi eld studies in Borneo. Musa lawitiensis var. kapitensis and Musa lawitiensis var. sarawakensis are described and illustrated as new varieties. Musa suratii Argent is proposed to be reclassifi ed as a variety of Musa lawitiensis and to be renamed as Musa lawitiensis var. suratii

A very slender, smallish banana with reddish-purple pseudostems and narrow, drooping leaves with bright, waxy white undersides. The slender inflorescence holds orange red bracts with a bluish waxy hue and greenish flowers followed by finger-sized, yellow fruits with very small seeds, only about 1.5 mm in diameter. Musa lawitiensis is native to Borneo where it grows in disturbed locations such as river banks at low and medium elevations. It would be best suited to cultivation in tropical conditions but it is still virtually unknown.

Description

Musa lawitiensis (also called Lawitiensis Banana, among many other common names) is a small, perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers and yellow-green fruits. It is native to the Philippines and is found in tropical and subtropical forests. It is a popular ornamental plant.

Uses & Benefits

Musa lawitiensis is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant. It is also used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments.

Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species

Musa lawitiensis var. lawitiensis
Musa lawitiensis var. suratii (Argent) Häkkinen
Musa lawitiensis var. kapitensis Häkkinen
Musa lawitiensis var. sarawakensis Häkkinen

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

Musa lawitiensis has yellow flowers with purple centers. The seeds are small and black. The seedlings have a rosette of leaves with a single stem.

Cultivation and Propagation

Musa lawitiensis is an evergreen perennial that grows in tropical and subtropical climates. It can be propagated by seed or by division of the rootstock. It prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate light frost.

Where to Find Musa lawitiensis

Musa lawitiensis is native to India and can be found in tropical and subtropical climates. It can be grown indoors or outdoors in a sunny spot.