Banana, fruit of the genus Musa, of the family Musaceae, one of the most important fruit crops of the world. The banana is grown in the tropics, and though it is most widely consumed in those regions, it is valued worldwide for its flavour, nutritional value, and availability throughout the year.

Cavendish, or dessert bananas, are most commonly eaten fresh, though they may be fried or mashed and chilled in pies or puddings. They may also be used to flavour muffins, cakes, or breads.

Cooking varieties, or plantains, are starchy rather than sweet and are grown extensively as a staple food source in tropical regions.