Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: Piesangboom, Banana tree

Family: Musaceae (Banana)

Distribution: Southeast Asia

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

Comments: Musa acuminata is a pioneer species. It rapidly exploits newly disturbed areas, like areas recently subjected to forest fires. It is also considered a 'keystone species' in certain ecosystems, paving the way for greater wildlife diversity once they have established themselves in an area. It is particularly important as a food source for wildlife due to its rapid regeneration.