Abyssinian banana
nounDefinition of Abyssinian banana
: a perennial plant (Ensete ventricosum) native to eastern Africa that has very large, paddle-shaped leaves and inedible fruits resembling small bananas and that is often grown in warm regions as an ornamental
Note:
The leaves of the Abyssinian banana can reach a length of 20 feet (6 meters) and the leaf stalks are an important source of dietary starch in Africa. It was formerly classified in the same genus (Musa) as the banana.
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on Abyssinian banana
What made you want to look up Abyssinian banana? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Words from Greek and Roman Mythology Quiz
-
- Boreal comes from the name of the ancient Greek god of which wind?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Words from Greek and Roman Mythology Quiz
A mythological/etymological mashup!
Take the quiz -
Great Scrabble Words—A Quiz
Words to improve your Scrabble game
Take the quiz -
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
Take the quiz -
Dictionary Devil
The dictionary has been scrambled—can you put it back together?
Play the game
Share Abyssinian banana
Resources for Abyssinian banana