The Traveler’s Tree (Ravenala madagascariensis) is a rhizomatous plant with a tree-like stature but a semi-woody texture. It has a sculptural and unique appearance, characteristic of the strange and beautiful plants of Madagascar. Its leaves are enormous, resembling banana leaves, supported by long and strong petioles arranged in a fan shape. Between these petioles, the plant stores water, which quenches the thirst of travelers, earning it the popular name. When these petioles fall, they leave scars on the woody stem similar to those of palm trees. Although commonly mistaken for a palm, the Traveler’s Tree is related to the bird-of-paradise plants (Strelitzia sp).
The inflorescences, similar to those of the bird-of-paradise, emerge between the petioles, with boat-shaped green bracts and showy cream-white flowers. The combination of bracts and flowers resembles a bird’s head, with a pointed beak and crest. Blooming occurs in the fall, followed by brown capsules containing seeds with iridescent blue arils, which attract birds. The Traveler’s Tree is pollinated by bats and lemurs.
This plant, with its impressive stature – reaching 26 feet (8 meters) in height – and sensational appearance, is not suitable for just any garden. It needs space to grow beautifully and be properly admired. It can be used as a standalone feature or in groups, with a single trunk or in giant clumps, preferably in extensive, well-maintained lawns. The Traveler’s Tree is suitable for large residential gardens, farms, and parks. It is considered one of the symbols of Madagascar and is very useful to the natives, who extract a solid fat from its stem and use the fibrous leaves for roofing.
It should be cultivated in full sun, in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter and regularly irrigated. The Traveler’s Tree appreciates regular organic fertilization and is not tolerant of long drought periods. It is essentially a tropical plant, native to hot and humid forests, and does not tolerate frost or intense cold. Planting in open areas with strong winds causes its leaves to become torn and unsightly. The Traveler’s Tree requires rich monthly fertilization to grow vigorously. It propagates by seeds and by dividing the shoots that form alongside the mother plant.
