The description, distribution and habitat of wild banana species in northern Viet Nam.

Abstract

• Northern Viet Nam displays a remarkable diversity of wild bananas ( L.) including the species from which the majority of cultivated bananas derive. The taxonomy and exact distribution of these wild bananas are however not well known, limiting their conservation and use. In the present study, we describe the morphology, ecology, and phytogeography of the 6 species that were collected between 2016 and 2019 in northern Viet Nam: Colla, Colla, Cheesman, N.S.Ly & Haev, R.V.Valmayor, L.D.Danh and Hakkinen and A.Z.Liu and D.Z.Li:. Of these, was the species with the most widespread distribution range, occurring as large mats in various habitats between 136 and 1331 m, whereas was found between 136 and 989 m and was between 108 and 981 m. Furthermore, and were distributed in open areas with low competition for light, between 80 and 800 m. These latter three species have the potential to become ornamental plants, being characterized by bright and colourful upright inflorescences. The data presented here will help in providing a valuable contribution to the conservation and use of the wild bananas in northern Viet Nam.