Were you aware that the banana tree isn't actually a tree, but rather, an herb from the genus Musa. But, as the plant grows to such great heights and broad structure, it is commonly referred to as a banana tree. While most of in the world are oblivious to this fact, since we're only used to seeing bananas in bunches, stacked up neatly at the grocery store, we neglect to realize where bananas are grown, and what great efforts are made to get them shipped to our supermarkets.

And there's much more to learn about bananas than how to peel them. For example, the banana tree leaf is cultivated for its oil, and is used in cooking around the world. In fact, you can grow your own banana leaves, or buy frozen banana leaves from international markets (usually stores that provide south-east Asian, African, Latin American products). In addition, it is very common in Chinese cooking to use banana tree leaves to steam meat, and it is also used in Chinese rice cakes. Indians will use banana leaves as a form of dinnerware, forgoing the need for plates.

Another notable relative of the traditional yellow banana is the red banana tree, a cousin to the banana that grows natively in Sumatra. This vibrant plant, known for its colorful red and green scheme, with burgundy leaves stained like wine, can be grown indoors, (provided it gets lots of strong light). However, the red banana tree is more for ornamental purposes, as its fruit is bitter and filled with seeds.

Orange you glad you read about bananas?