Question

Which part of the banana plant is not used as food by humans?
(a) Stem
(b) Leaf
(c) Flower
(d) Fruit

Answer 1

Hint: They are the main organs present above ground and help in the production of food by the process of photosynthesis. This structure can show various modifications, in xerophytic plants it is reduced to spines.

Complete answer:
The banana plant is one of those plants whose various parts may be consumed in one form or the other. The roots and leaves of the banana plants are the only parts that are not consumed as food by humans.
- The banana plants belong to the genus Musa, having a large herbaceous habit.
- The stems may be consumed in various forms depending upon the need.
- The stems are mostly consumed raw by extracting its juice or sometimes used as a means of vegetables in certain food items.
- The stems are soft and can also be consumed by various other animals.
- The leaves of the banana plant are used as a plate for placing the food in various regions depicting the culture.
- The leaves are large and are used in the preparation of certain food dishes.
- The leaves and stems are sometimes used as a cattle feed when dried.
- The fruits of the banana plants are consumed either raw or ripened.
- The fruits of the banana plants are long and elongated which is rich in starch.
- The fruits are grown in a cluster that is attached and hang from the top of the plant.
So, the correct answer is, ‘Leaf.’

Note: The word banana is derived from the West African word Wolof, meaning ‘banana’. This word has other origins also when it was introduced in English. Linnaeus introduced the genus Musa in 1753, where he placed the banana plants. It is said that the name Musa was either derived from the Arabic word Mauz, meaning ‘banana’, or from the name of the physician of Emperor Augustus, named Antonius Musa.