How many types of banana are there?

Bananas come in hundreds of varieties, but only a few of these are available at the average grocery store. The most common type of banana is called a Cavendish banana.

The Cavendish banana is the variety found in most grocery stores because of its long shelf life and resistance to disease. Other varieties of bananas include Manzana and red bananas.

The Manzana variety is smaller and sweeter than the Cavendish banana. Manzana bananas are also referred to as apple bananas or dessert bananas. They have a subtle strawberry- or apple-like taste. Red bananas have red skin and also have a hint of apple flavor.