Gros Michel
| Scientific Name | Musa acuminata 'Gros Michel' (AAA Group) |
|---|---|
| Mature Height | 15-25 feet |
| USDA Zones | 10-11 |
| Fruit | Yes — the original 'banana flavor', thick-skinned |
| Cold Hardy | No |
| Type | Fruiting |
Gros Michel was the world's dominant commercial banana until the 1950s, when Panama disease Race 1 devastated plantations across Central and South America. It was replaced in commerce by the Cavendish group, which was resistant to that strain. Gros Michel is the banana that artificial banana flavoring is based on — its flavor is more intense and complex than Cavendish, which is why banana candy doesn't quite taste like a modern store banana.
Today, Gros Michel is uncommon but still available from specialty nurseries. Growing it is a piece of banana history.
Growing Conditions
Requires tropical conditions — zones 10 and 11 only. Full sun, very rich soil, and heavy feeding. This is a tall plant that needs wind protection. See Wind Damage.
Time to Fruit
15 to 24 months from a pup. The fruit is larger and thicker-skinned than Cavendish, with a creamier texture.
Propagation
Pup division. Moderate pup production.
Common Issues
Highly susceptible to Panama disease Race 1. Home growers in areas without a history of Panama disease usually have no issues, but it is a risk factor. Also susceptible to Black Sigatoka.