This Is Where to Find a Blue Java Banana

Photos of a pretty, robin’s-egg blue banana have spread wildly on social media, along with its real name: Blue Java banana. It’s also known as the “ice cream banana” due to its texture. Like the Pinkglow pineapple, the blue banana is hard to find at stores. This rare banana has a years-long waiting list at some retailers!

Are blue bananas real?

Yes, blue bananas are real—with one caveat. The photos circulating on Facebook are probably Photoshopped. Blue Java bananas are a blue-ish green when unripe, but they ripen to a pale yellow. When peeled, the fruit is white, like regular supermarket bananas.

What do blue bananas taste like?

Because of its nickname, social media users spread the rumor that blue bananas taste like vanilla soft serve. However, Miami Fruit, a grower of Blue Java bananas, says the ice cream moniker refers to the texture of the banana, not the flavor. Ripe Blue Java bananas are thick, creamy and soft. The flavor has a hint of vanilla, though, and is sweet-tart. Like other bananas and plantains, eat blue bananas only when they’re ripe: yellow with a soft banana aroma.

Where can I buy Blue Java bananas?

Thanks to photos on Facebook, blue bananas are in demand and tricky to find. You won’t be able to find a bunch in the produce department, though, not even at the best grocery stores. If you live in the right climate, head to a nursery that sells exotic plants for a Blue Java banana tree. The fruit mainly grows in Southeast Asia but can also grow in balmy Florida. Otherwise, look for a reputable online seller, such as Miami Fruit, that will ship an expensive blue banana right to your door. For one Blue Java banana, expect to pay $47. Miami Fruit also sells a small box of bananas for $127 and a large box for $177. Don’t expect delivery anytime soon, though. The current wait time is about three years.