SafePlants

Ravenala madagascariensis: The Traveler's Tree (or Palm!)

Often called the Traveler's Tree or Traveler's Palm, Ravenala madagascariensis is a striking plant that often surprises those who encounter it. Despite its common names, it's more closely related to banana trees than to palm trees.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant grows very tall.
• It has large, banana-like leaves.

Considerations for Children

• This plant grows very tall.
• It has large, banana-like leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Ravenala madagascariensis
• Common Names: Traveler's Tree, Traveler's Palm
• Family: Strelitziaceae (Bird-of-Paradise Family)
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Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Madagascar and Mauritius Island.
• Also grows well in tropical and sub-tropical regions, such as Costa Rica and the Caribbean.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Giant, tree-like herb, growing up to 16 meters tall.
• Stems are simple, solitary, or branched at the base, and are clothed by leaf bases.
• Leaves can grow up to 4 meters long, arising at approximately 45 degrees from the main stem.
• Leaves are arranged in a distichous (two-ranked) manner, creating a fan-like appearance.

Quirky Facts

• The "Traveler's" moniker comes from the fact that the plant accumulates water in its leaf bases, which can reputedly provide a source of drinking water for travelers.
• The plant is said to offer a clear, watery sap that can be used as a refreshing drink.
• It produces amazing blue seeds.

Ecological Role

• Its large leaves and tree-like structure can create an exotic, tropical effect.
• Reportedly provides you with a floor, a roof, water and food.