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Not to be confused with the Jamaican Lacatan—also known as Masak Hijau and Hamakua, which belongs to the Cavendish Subgroup—the ‘True Philippine Lakatan’ is a delicious banana cultivar 😋
Although the Lakatan doesn’t belong to the Cavendish Subgroup, it does share many flavor similarities due to its similar genetic structure.
In fact, the Lakatan Banana is among one of the most sought-after dessert bananas in the Philippines.
Fun Fact #1: The Tagalog language, one of the official languages of the Philippines, does not include the letter ‘C.’ This is why the cultivar’s name is spelled ‘Lakatan’ and not ‘Lacatan.’ 🇵🇭
That said, this grow guide will cover everything you need to know about the Lakatan Banana:
Table of Contents
- Lakatan Banana Tree Characteristics & Fruit Production
- Lakatan Banana Flavor Profile
- Lakatan Banana Disease Resistance
- Lakatan Banana Tree For Sale (Where To Find)
- Conclusion
Lakatan Banana Tree Characteristics & Fruit Production
Lakatan Bananas are small banana trees that usually average between 6 – 10 feet tall. As a result, Lakatan Bananas can be grown in a container over the long term and is considered a “condo” banana.
Like the Goldfinger Banana, the Lakatan has a sturdy, robust pseudostem, providing better stability and allowing it to withstand mild to moderate winds.
However, I would still advise to avoid planting them in areas with frequent or extreme winds, as their large, broad leaves are still prone to shredding in the event of strong gusts.
The Lakatan is apart of the species Musa acuminata and features a Triploid (AAA) genome. Other triploid (AAA) banana cultivars include, but are not limited to:
- Cavendish (Williams, Dwarf Cavendish, Grand Nain)
- Gros Michel
- Lady’s Finger
- Dwarf Red
Why does banana chromosomal count even matter? Glad you asked! 😜
In layman’s terms, the sweetness and softness of a banana’s texture increase with a higher concentration of ‘A’ chromosomes inherited from Musa acuminata. Conversely, a greater proportion of ‘B’ chromosomes from Musa balbisiana enhances the banana’s resilience, improving its cold tolerance and resistance to diseases.
Genetically, the Lakatan Banana isn’t naturally equipped to handle environmental stressors like drought and wind. Its lack of ‘B’ chromosomes also makes it highly sensitive to cold, so it’s best to avoid planting Lakatan Bananas in areas with less-than-ideal growing conditions.
But that pure ‘A’ chromosomal makeup?
It’s the secret behind Lakatan’s sweetness and unique flavor—but more on that in a moment! 😉
Fun Fact #2: Most “Lakatan Bananas” sold in the U.S. are actually the Jamaican Lacatan. So, if you’re looking to get your hands on an authentic Lakatan, be sure to buy from a reputable seller!
When grown under optimal conditions, the Lakatan Banana’s fruit production ranges from average to good.
The trees I’ve observed have produced impressively large bunches with well-proportioned hands, which is especially remarkable considering their relatively compact size.
Lakatan Banana Flavor Profile
The Lakatan Banana has a long, thick shape with a slight curve, almost like one of those skinny balloons you blow up for kids’ parties. It’s definitely more cylindrical than most bananas, giving it a distinctive and plump appearance.
Lakatans are perfectly ripe when the peel turns a deep, vibrant yellow with a few brown spots or streaks starting to appear, accompanied by a sweet aroma that’s impossible to miss.
Don’t worry if there’s still a tiny bit of green near the stem or the tip—that’s completely normal and perfectly fine to eat. Just a heads-up, though: don’t even think about eating one while the peel is still mostly green.
Trust me, it’ll taste terrible 🤮
Oddly enough, even when they’re perfectly ripe, the fruit doesn’t tend to pop open from the stem as easily as other bananas, so be prepared for that.
Once peeled, the fruit will reveal a beautiful yellow-orange flesh—a clear sign you’re holding a genuine Lakatan 👍🏻
Fun Fact #3: The Lakatan’s vibrant orange color comes from its high beta-carotene content! 🥕
The texture of a ripe Lakatan is truly unique. The fruit stays surprisingly firm, even at peak ripeness, yet remains moist and dense, with just enough creaminess to feel satisfying. It’s firmer and less chewy than a Saba Banana but still has a nice bite. It’s one of those bananas that feels substantial without being mushy.
On the flip side, if you try one underripe, you’re in for a dry, pasty texture, similar to a very unripe Cavendish.
Maybe I’m being dramatic, but I think it’s practically inedible when underripe. LOL. 🫠
From a flavor perspective, when I first sampled the Lakatan, I expected it to hit me with over-the-top sweetness because of its AAA genetics. However, it’s actually not as sweet as a ripe Cavendish. Its sweetness is closer to bananas like Raja Puri, Pisang Ceylon, or Iholena.
What really stands out, though, is its tangy, slightly tart edge, which adds a dynamic twist to the flavor. If you’ve ever tried Sweetheart, Goldfinger, Orinoco, or Double Mahoi, you’ll notice a similar balance between sweet and tangy that keeps things interesting.
Now, is it worth growing Lakatan Bananas? That’s where it gets tricky.
If you’re tired of plain old Cavendish and want something different, Lakatan is a solid choice. The flavor is undeniably good, but I wouldn’t call it game-changing. If you’re looking for a banana that’ll truly blow your mind, I’d steer you toward something like Mysore or Manzano—they’re on a whole other level 📈
Plus, if you’re after bananas with a similar flavor but with much better production, an FHIA hybrid might be a better fit.
That said, Lakatan has its charm. If you’ve got the space and want to try something a little different, it’s definitely worth a shot. Just don’t expect it to steal the show.
Lakatan Banana Disease Resistance
Due to its triploid (AAA) genome structure, the Lakatan Banana has terrible disease resistance.
More specifically, the Lakatan Banana is very prone to both Panama Disease and Sigatoka Disease and should, therefore, only be planted in disease-free soils.
Lakatan Banana Tree For Sale (Where To Find)
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Conclusion
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