Traveller's Tree (Ravenaia Madagascariensis)

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Ravenala is a genus of flowering plants with a single species, Ravenala madagascariensis, commonly known as the traveler's tree, traveler's palm, or East-West palm, from Madagascar.
• It is not a true palm but a member of a monocotyledonous flowering plant family, Strelitziaceae.
• In fact, it’s fanned branching structure and foliage are distinctively different from the typical palm.
• The common name comes from the plant’s unique, somewhat two-dimensional fan of foliage that tends to align in an east-west direction when growing in its natural habitat.
• As a result of this interesting growth habit, a wandering traveler could use this tree to gain a sense of direction, just like a compass.
• This “flat” fan of foliage enables it to be used in places where height is desired without taking up a wide range of space.

SOIL REQUIREMENT

• Prefers moist but well-drained soil.

FEEDING/FERTILIZER REQUIREMENT

• Adding a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the growing season will result in a healthier and faster-growing tree.

LIGHT REQUIREMENT

• Bright Light.

WATER REQUIREMENT

• Check the soil moisture with your finger.
• If the top 2-4” (5-10cm) of soil is dry, or plants are wilted, it is time to water.

REPOTTING SERVICES