Silk Banana

Also Known As: Silk Banana, Apple Banana, Chakrakeli Indian Names: Rasthali, Chakrakeli,

Murthapala International Classification: AA Group (Sucrier Type)

About This Variety

Rasthali is arguably India's most beloved banana variety, and among those who have tasted it, it inspires a level of loyalty that no other variety matches. Known internationally as the Silk Banana for its extraordinarily smooth, almost creamy texture, and the Apple Banana for its faint apple-like acidity and complex aroma, Rasthali is a premium eating banana with a character that stands apart from the ubiquitous Cavendish.

It is smaller in size than Grand Naine, typically 10 to 14 centimetres, but what it lacks in size it more than compensates for in depth of flavour. Rasthali is primarily grown in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, where the warm, humid climate and rich red laterite soils produce fruit of exceptional sweetness and fragrance.

Flavour & Texture Profile

Exceptionally sweet with a complex, multi-layered flavour- a primary sweetness followed by a faint, pleasant acidity and a lingering floral or apple-like finish. The texture is extraordinarily smooth, almost silk-like, hence the name, with minimal fibre and a soft, yielding flesh that practically dissolves on the palate. The aroma is distinctly fragrant and warm.

Nutritional Profile (per 100g, ripe)

Health Benefits

Instant Natural Energy - Rasthali's high natural sugar content makes it one of the fastest-acting energy foods in the banana family. It is traditionally consumed by athletes, labourers, and students before periods of intense mental or physical activity.

Heart Health - Potassium at 400mg per 100g is among the highest in Indian banana varieties, making Rasthali particularly valuable for buyers targeting heart health and blood pressure management markets.

Digestive Ease – Its low fibre content and easily digestible sugars make Rasthali exceptionally gentle on the digestive system. It is a preferred banana for individuals with sensitive stomachs, recovering patients, and elderly consumers.

Antioxidant Activity – The mild acidity in Rasthali reflects the presence of natural organic acids that contribute antioxidant activity, helping combat oxidative stress at the cellular level.

Bone & Muscle Support – Iron content supports red blood cell production. Combined with potassium, Rasthali offers meaningful support for muscular function and recovery after physical exertion.

Skin Health – Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis, contributing to skin elasticity and radiance. Rasthali is traditionally used in South Indian home remedies for skin conditioning.

Ideal For

Specialty grocery importers, organic food retailers, premium fruit baskets, wellness food brands, and natural food markets. It is a strong candidate for positioning as a premium alternative to standard Cavendish in European specialty retail.

Shelf Life: 7–10 days post-harvest at ambient temperature. Shelf life is shorter than Grand Naine due to its delicate skin and rapid ripening nature. Best suited for regional export and short-haul international shipping. Cold chain handling is recommended at 13–14°C.

Nutrient

Amount

Calories

95 kcal

Carbohydrates

24g

Natural Sugars

16g

Dietary Fibre

1.8g

Potassium

400 mg

Vitamin B6

0.30 mg

Vitamin C

10.5 mg

Iron

0.6 mg