Alpan (Poovan) is the cultivar of banana. In Tamil Nadu, it’s known as Poovan, whereas in Andhra Pradesh, it’s known as Karpura Chakkarakeli, and in the northeast as Alpan. Perennial cultivation is the most common method of growing it. As a result of the state’s climatic and soil conditions, Tamil Nadu is the primary producer of the Poovan cultivar. Additionally, Poovan is grown commercially for its leaves in Tamil Nadu and specific areas of Kerala.
The fruit has a characteristic sour-sweet scent and is firm with a bit of acidity. On ripening, the fruit becomes a beautiful golden yellow color. In addition to the tight fruit packing and outstanding storage quality, this variety is also resistant to fruit breaking. Unfortunately, aside from BBMV disease and BSV, which cause significant yield losses, it is susceptible to banana bract mosaic (BBMV) disease and banana streak virus (BSV).
