Gros Michel banana

The Gros Michel banana, often called "Big Mike," was once the dominant commercial banana variety worldwide. Known for its rich flavor and thicker skin, it was favored by consumers for its taste and durability during shipping. However, in the mid-20th century, a fungal disease called Panama Disease (Fusarium wilt) devastated Gros Michel plantations, leading to its decline. Today, the Cavendish banana has replaced it as the primary commercial variety due to its resistance to the disease. Despite its disappearance from markets, Gros Michel remains a symbol of banana history and is occasionally grown in smaller, specialty farms.