Small Banana: Types, Nutrition, and Unique Varieties

Ever spotted a banana way smaller than the usual ones at the store? You might’ve wondered what it’s called. People usually call a small banana a mini banana, baby banana, or finger banana. These little bananas are shorter and definitely sweeter than the regular kind, so they make a super convenient snack—plus, they taste great.

You’ll see small bananas that range from about 3 to 6 inches long. Their small size makes them really easy to toss in a bag or lunchbox, which is probably why so many people like them for quick snacks or fruit salads.

Even though they’re tiny, they still have the same nutrients as bigger bananas. You still get a nice boost of potassium and vitamins.

Small bananas come in several types, but the Lady Finger banana is probably the most popular. People love them for their creamy texture and strong sweetness, which sets them apart from the usual supermarket banana.

If you’re a banana fan and want something a bit different, these small bananas could be just what you need.

What Are Small Bananas?

Small bananas stand out because of their size and sweetness. You’ll find several varieties with their own unique taste and texture, and they’re definitely not the same as the regular bananas you see every day.

Definition and Characteristics

People sometimes call small bananas baby bananas or lady finger bananas. They usually measure between 3 and 6 inches long.

Their size makes them perfect for snacking, and the taste is often sweeter and creamier than the bigger bananas. The skin is thinner, so peeling them is a breeze.

Lady Fingers have a delicate texture and a sweet flavor, while Barangan comes from Southeast Asia and is known for being a dessert banana.

People usually eat these fresh, not cooked.

Comparison to Regular Bananas

Regular bananas like the Cavendish, which you see everywhere in the U.S., are bigger—usually 6 to 9 inches—and have thicker skin. Their taste is milder and not as sweet as most small bananas.

Small bananas stand out for their concentrated sweetness and softer feel. Their compact size makes them simple to carry and eat when you’re out and about.

Cavendish bananas might dominate the world market, but small bananas are catching on for their sweet flavor and convenience. If you like your fruit on the sweeter side or want a snack that’s easy to eat, small bananas make a great pick.

Popular Types of Small Bananas

Small bananas offer unique flavors and fun sizes compared to the usual Cavendish. They’re often sweeter, have different textures, and you can eat them fresh or even cook with them.

Lady Finger

Lady Finger bananas are smaller and thinner than Cavendish bananas. They usually grow to about 4 to 6 inches and have a slim, delicate shape.

Their sweetness is more intense than regular bananas, so they’re awesome for snacking or tossing into a fruit salad. The skin is thin and peels off easily.

Lady Fingers don’t brown quickly after you slice them, which is handy. You can eat them fresh or use them in desserts if you want more sweetness without adding bulk.

Manzano (Apple Banana)

Manzano or apple bananas are small and compact, with a firm texture and a hint of apple-like tang. The flavor mixes classic banana sweetness with a little tartness, so it’s a different experience.

They look golden and come from tropical regions. You might see them called Latundan or Silk banana too.

You can eat Manzano bananas raw or cooked. Their firmer texture works well in recipes where you want the banana flavor but also a bit more bite.

Barangan

Barangan bananas aren’t as common, but they’re prized for their small size and creamy feel. They belong to the dessert banana family, like Goldfinger and Lady Finger, and they bring a richer sweetness for anyone who loves a strong banana flavor.

People usually eat Barangan bananas fresh, but you can also cook with them—think baking or frying. They’re a nice change if you’re bored with the usual sweet, creamy Cavendish.

Goldfinger Banana

Goldfinger bananas look a lot like Cavendish in size, but their peel feels noticeably thicker and the inside is firmer. Their bright yellow skin stands out, and sometimes you’ll spot a faint reddish tint once they’re ripe.

Growers really appreciate these bananas because they resist disease, so you’ll find them in places where Cavendish just can’t thrive. Their flavor? It’s mildly sweet, but there’s this little tart edge that makes them surprisingly versatile.

Try tossing Goldfinger bananas into a smoothie or fruit salad if you want a firmer bite and a taste that’s a bit more interesting than the usual Cavendish.

Editor’s notes

Some fruits are popular, but we choose not to carry them if we can’t source good quality consistently. It’s tempting to chase trends, but inconsistency damages trust. We’d rather offer fewer items and do them well.