Traveler’s Palm (ravenala madagascariensis)
The Traveler’s Palm is one of the most distinctive
and notable plants from Madagascar. Though not a
true palm, the traveler's palm gets its name from the
fact that thirsty travelers could find stores of water in
many parts of the plant including the leaf folds, flower
bracts and inside each of the hollow leaf bases, of
which may hold up to one quart of water!
Its long leaf stems and deep vivid green leaves
resemble those of the banana and extend out from
the trunk like slats of a giant hand fan. The leaves
range up to 10 feet long and from 12-20 inches in
width.
Young plants have a subterranean trunk, whereas the
adult crown elevates itself above grown in symmetrical
beauty. The green palm-like trunk grows up to 1ft in
diameter and displays unique trunk leaf scar rings.
It's not to be confused with it's cousin the Giant Bird of
Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai). The Traveler's can grow
up to 30 feet tall and can take some frost.
It is perfect for that special accent in your tropical/sub-
tropical landscape. Not only is the traveler's palm one
of the most striking accents in any garden but it's
unique in nature and is monotypic, meaning it is the
only species in its genus.
FACTS
Soil - rich, well drained.
Sun - full sun. Prefers
protected areas from
wind.
Water - ample water, grows
faster with water.
Cold - take down to 29°F.
Natural Habitat -
Madagascar
and notable plants from Madagascar. Though not a
true palm, the traveler's palm gets its name from the
fact that thirsty travelers could find stores of water in
many parts of the plant including the leaf folds, flower
bracts and inside each of the hollow leaf bases, of
which may hold up to one quart of water!
Its long leaf stems and deep vivid green leaves
resemble those of the banana and extend out from
the trunk like slats of a giant hand fan. The leaves
range up to 10 feet long and from 12-20 inches in
width.
Young plants have a subterranean trunk, whereas the
adult crown elevates itself above grown in symmetrical
beauty. The green palm-like trunk grows up to 1ft in
diameter and displays unique trunk leaf scar rings.
It's not to be confused with it's cousin the Giant Bird of
Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai). The Traveler's can grow
up to 30 feet tall and can take some frost.
It is perfect for that special accent in your tropical/sub-
tropical landscape. Not only is the traveler's palm one
of the most striking accents in any garden but it's
unique in nature and is monotypic, meaning it is the
only species in its genus.
FACTS
Soil - rich, well drained.
Sun - full sun. Prefers
protected areas from
wind.
Water - ample water, grows
faster with water.
Cold - take down to 29°F.
Natural Habitat -
Madagascar
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