Ravenala madagascariensis
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| Travellers palm | ||||||||||||||
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| Ravenala madagascariensis Sonnerat |
Ravenala madagascariensis, commonly known as Traveler's Palm or Travellers Palm, is a species of banana-like plant from Madagascar. It is not a true palm (family Arecaceae) but a member of the bird-of-paradise family, Strelitziaceae. It is called the travellers palm because the stems hold rainwater that can be used as an emergency drinking supply. The enormous paddle-shaped leaves are borne on long petioles in a distinctive fan shape aligned in a single plane. Unlike its close relative the Bird-of-paradise flower Strelizia reginae, the flowers are small and inconspicuous. The plant is widely cultivated for its distinctive habit and foliage in tropical and subtropical regions.
Ravenala madagascariensis is the sole member of its genus and is closely related to the southern African genus Strelitzia and the South American genus Phenakospermum. Some older classifications include these genera in the banana family (Musaceae).
Culture: The plant requires a sunny spot (not full sun until it is larger). It responds well to fertiliser, especially if it is high in nitrogen during the growing season. This produces better growth and foliage. The plant grows to an average height of 7 meters and requires moderate water.
[edit] External links
 Habitus |
 Plants on Madeira |
