Banana ‘Grand Nain’ (Musa Acuminata)

Despite the plant’s tropical origins, few fruits are as omnipresent as bananas. While Musa acuminata is native to Southeast Asia, it’s known as one of the first domesticated plants. Today, bananas are a staple in every aspect of life, from wholesome diets to pop culture. That holds true for ‘Grand Nain’ (also spelled Grande Naine), which is sold by the bunch as ‘Chiquita’ bananas. This variety makes up half of the 100 billion bananas eaten every year worldwide. 

‘Chiquita Banana’ was trademarked in 1947 and Carmen Miranda—the banana-crowned lady on the blue produce stickers—became a household name. This representation of Miranda prevails as a stereotype today, but at the time it undoubtedly introduced people around the world to Brazilian music and Latin culture.