Dessert banana plant named ‘FHIA-26’

Abstract

This new and distinct variety of hybrid dessert banana plant has both Musa acuminata and Musa balbisiana in its pedigree. Its Latin name is Musa acuminata×balbisiana group AABB. AA representing two genomes of M. acuminata and BB representing two genomes of M. balbisiana . It has the following unique combination of desirable features: 1. A high level of resistance to Mycosphaerella fijiensis , causal fungus of the black Sigatoka (black leaf streak) disease. 2. A tall plant height. 3. A strong root system that makes it a hardy plant resistant to strong winds or weevil attach (corm borer Cosmopolites sordidus ). 4. Fruit bunch sizes that are frequently greater than 20 kg. 5. Ripe fruit has a very good taste, flavor and texture.

1. A new and distinct hybrid variety of dessert banana plant, substantially as illustrated and described, which is a tall plant and has a high level of resistance to  Mycosphaerella fijiensis , causal fungus of the black Sigatoka (black leaf streak) disease; the fresh ripe fruit is further characterized by having a very good taste, flavor and texture.