In the fruit world, bananas and plantains are two fruits that we often see. Although they are somewhat similar in taste and nutritional value, they are significantly different in terms of shape, color, taste, physical properties, tree shape and distribution range. Let's take a look at the properties of these two fruits and their significance in human culture.
1. Differences in form and color.
First of all, in appearance, the banana is curved in the shape of a crescent, the fruit stalk is short, and there are 5 or 6 ridges on the skin, giving it a plump and elegant feeling. The two ends of the plantain are thinner, the middle is thicker, one side is slightly flat, the other side is slightly curved, it is "round and notched", its fruit stalk is longer, there are 3 edges on the peel, and the shape is more unique.
In color, bananas are blue-green when unripe and turn yellow when ripe with brown spots, yellowish-white flesh with a nearly circular cross-section. This change in color not only increases the ornamentality of the banana, but also makes it possible to judge its ripeness at a glance. The skin of the plantain is grayish-yellow, no spots after ripening, the flesh is milky white, the cross section is oblate, and its color is relatively single.
Second, the contrast between taste and physical properties.
In terms of taste, bananas have a strong fragrance, sweet taste, delicate and smooth taste, and are deeply loved by people. Whether eaten as a fruit or made into a variety of pastries and drinks, bananas are a wonderful taste sensation. On the other hand, although the taste of plantain is sweet, it has a sour aftertaste and a slightly rough taste, and it is relatively rare in the way it is eaten.
In terms of physical properties, bananas are hot, while plantains are cold and sweet. This means that when it comes to choosing to consume, we can choose according to our physical condition and needs. For example, people with a hot constitution can choose to eat plantain to balance the heat in their body, while people with a cold constitution can choose to eat more bananas to replenish their body heat.
3. Differences in tree shape and distribution range.
In terms of tree shape, banana trees are "stocky", with broad leaves, stout stems, and greenish greenish and hoarfrost-covered leaves and stems. This tree shape makes the banana tree look more lush and vibrant. On the other hand, the plantain tree is "thin and tall", with narrower leaves, thinner stems, yellowish-green leaves and stems, and no hoarfrost. This tree shape makes the plantain tree look more upright and elegant.
In terms of distribution range, bananas have a wide distribution range, mainly distributed in the eastern, western, southern hemispheres, and tropical and ** zones within 30 degrees of north and south latitudes. This widespread distribution makes bananas one of the most important fruits in the world. The plantain is mainly distributed in the ** zone, and its distribution range is relatively small.
4. Cultural significance and social impact.
In addition to the above-mentioned differences in morphology and characteristics, bananas and plantain also have different meanings and influences in human culture. For example, in some tropical folk beliefs, bananas are seen as a symbol of good luck and abundance, and are often used as food for sacrifices or celebrations. Plantains, on the other hand, are associated with cooling and relieving heat in some cultures, and are often used as a food or beverage ingredient to cool off in the summer.
In general, although bananas and plantain are similar in taste and nutritional value, there are significant differences in shape, color, taste, physical properties, tree shape, distribution range and cultural significance. These differences not only enrich our food culture, but also add variety and interest to our lives.