Traveller's tree (Ravenala madagascariensis)
The striking Traveller's tree (Ravenala madagascariensis) is a massive, fan-shaped evergreen native to Madagascar, thriving in warm climates.
Scroll down to discover growing tips, care requirements, companion plants, and more
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Traveller’s tree, or Ravenala madagascariensis, is one of the most visually arresting broadleaf evergreens available for tropical and subtropical landscapes. Its magnificent, towering silhouette and distinctive fan of giant, banana-like leaves create an undeniable architectural focal point unlike any other specimen plant. This massive plant, native to the moist forests of Madagascar, requires significant space to reach its full potential height of 30 to 50 feet.
Gardeners are drawn to the striking geometry of Ravenala madagascariensis, especially when sited against a clear sky, allowing its massive fan structure to be fully appreciated. Although it resembles a true palm, it is actually related to the Bird-of-Paradise. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the common name “Traveller’s tree” originates from the natural collection of rainwater held in the cupped bases of its leaf stalks, historically offering emergency hydration.
Successfully cultivating this tropical giant generally requires commitment, demanding warm zones and protection from sharp temperature drops. For large estates or commercial properties in frost-free regions, the Traveller’s tree offers unparalleled drama, though responsible pruning of suckers is necessary to maintain its iconic single-trunk, tree-like form.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Strelitziaceae
- Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
- Native Range: Madagascar
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10-11
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 30-50 ft
- Spread: 15-25 ft
- Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
- Bloom Description: White
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Optimal establishment for Ravenala madagascariensis requires planting in deep, fertile, organically rich soils that retain moderate moisture but remain perfectly well-drained. In its hardiest zones (10–11), this plant thrives best when situated in an area receiving consistent full sun exposure throughout the day. Remember that maintaining the distinct, unbranched trunk form of the Traveller’s tree depends on routinely removing any developing root suckers or offsets that emerge near the base.
Watering should be consistent, aiming for medium needs, especially while the plant is young or establishing. It is particularly vital to shelter the Traveller’s tree from strong winds, as the enormous leaf blades are easily shredded, marring its ornamental value. Furthermore, this species demonstrates zero cold tolerance below 40°F and actively dislikes temperatures dipping below 60°F, necessitating greenhouse protection in marginal climates.
Propagation can be achieved through careful division of offsets or by seed, though division often results in quicker maturity. For gardeners outside USDA Zone 10, container cultivation on a sunny patio is an option, although overwintering these containers indoors presents a significant management challenge.
Landscape Uses
Given its eventual massive size, the Traveller’s tree is often too large for confined suburban home landscapes and is better suited for expansive parks, large estates, or commercial developments where its architectural scale can be fully realized. To maximize the impact of Ravenala madagascariensis, site it where the open sky forms the backdrop for its unique upright leaf presentation rather than tucking it near taller buildings or dense tree lines.
When space permits, interplanting near the base with low-growing, shade-tolerant tropical groundcovers can help accentuate the height and grandeur of the trunk structure as it emerges. While challenging due to its size, container gardening on a sunny patio is a viable strategy for warming climates, allowing the gardener to control size and move the specimen to sheltered locations when cold weather threatens.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Good Dried
Fruit Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Ravenala madagascariensis, commonly called traveller’s tree or traveller’s palm, is a large tree-like plant which is native to moist forests in Madagascar where it will grow over time to 30-50’ tall. This plant features an unbranched trunk topped by a fan-shaped single plane of enormous, long-stalked, banana-like, deep green leaves, often reaching 5-10 feet in length. Flowers are followed by woody capsules containing edible seeds covered by bright blue arils, blooming sporadically throughout the year after the main summer flush.
Tolerances
- No serious insect or disease problems.
Potential Problems
The primary non-biological issue for the Traveller’s tree involves mechanical damage; its vast leaves are extremely susceptible to shredding in strong winds, quickly diminishing the plant’s clean, architectural appearance. While generally robust, watch for significant signs of leaf spot infection, which can spread rapidly in humid conditions. Root rot is also a possibility if soil drainage is inadequate, highlighting the importance of planting in well-drained loam. Spider mites can occasionally be a nuisance, particularly on indoor or stressed container specimens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Traveller’s tree suitable for?
The Traveller’s tree, Ravenala madagascariensis, is hardy only in USDA Zones 10 through 11, requiring protection in all cooler environments.
How large does Traveller’s tree grow?
This dramatic specimen can achieve impressive heights between 30 and 50 feet tall, with a spread ranging from 15 to 25 feet over many years.
What sun exposure does Traveller’s tree need?
For best growth and development of its characteristic fan shape, the Traveller’s tree requires full sun exposure throughout the day.
When does Traveller’s tree bloom?
This plant is noted as a seasonal bloomer, producing showy white flowers that may continue to appear sporadically throughout the rest of the year.
Conclusion
The unmatched architectural form provided by the Ravenala madagascariensis makes it an essential focal point specimen where climates align with its requirements for warmth and sun. By ensuring superior soil drainage and providing shelter from harsh winds, gardeners can successfully manage the upkeep of this impressive Traveller’s tree. Always confirm you are rooted firmly within USDA Zones 10 or 11 before planning its permanent installation.
Propagation Tips
Successful propagation of Ravenala madagascariensis can be achieved through careful division when robust offsets or suckers appear at the base of a mature plant. This method often leads to faster establishment compared to starting from seed, which benefits from stratification or scarification to break dormancy. Ensure any divisions retain a healthy section of root mass attached to the base when separating them from the mother plant to maximize survival odds.
Design Ideas
For dramatic effect in large commercial landscapes, consider mass plantings of Traveler’s palms in staggered formations to create living walls or screens that emphasize the tropical environment. Plant smaller, textural understory plants that complement the giant leaves without visually competing with the Ravenala madagascariensis’s fan structure. Siting should prioritize views where the plant’s silhouette is highlighted against open space or water features.
