Description:
The pseudostem is solitary, reaching a height of 3-4 meters, with a very large, swollen base. The leaf blades are elongated, similar in size to other banana species, growing up to 1.5 meters long and exhibiting a glaucous green color. The inflorescence emerges on a common peduncle that inclines downward, ranging from 50 centimeters to 1 meter in length. The bracts are ovate, overlapping, forming a tapering, elongated spike, which is green and persistent (does not fall off). The fruit-bearing section of the inflorescence develops in two rows. The initial flower clusters are female, while the subsequent clusters are typically male. The fruits are elongated, measuring 10-12 cm in length and 3.5 cm in diameter. Seeds are few and approximately 1 cm in size, characterized by a uniform black color and a deeply indented hilum (scar).
Distribution:
This species grows as isolated individuals in Xuân Sơn National Park (Phú Thọ Province), Hòa Bình Province, Hà Nam Ninh Province, and some other northern provinces of Vietnam. The plant is propagated by seed. Since it does not branch until death, it is commonly referred to as “Solitary Banana” or “Lonely Banana” (Chuối cô đơn).
Uses:
The plant can be cultivated for ornamental purposes due to its long, green inflorescence. The seeds are used in traditional medicine to treat certain parasitic worm infections.