One of the most spectacular of all of the palm trees Ravenala madagascariensis, it may be a little slow to grow at the start, however it soon puts on growth at a good rate. A mature specimen is a magnificent tree and is sure to draw attention.
Not really a palm at all Ravenala madagascariensis is related to Strelitzia and is widely known as the Travellers Palm. From Madagascar you could grow this purely for the blue seeds, which are amazing, however it is as a foliage plant that they are used in landscaping.
The large leaves rise on tall stalks from the trunk and can be well over 2m long. Individual plants can reach 10m+ in height.
A good specimen is a beautiful tree and Ravenala madagasariensis one of the more fascinating palm trees. it is also known as the Travellers Palm or East West Palm.
On a technical note this is not really a palm tree, it is actually related to the Strelitzias, and it does have leaves that look like the giant Strelitzia and forms a fan shape. Over time Ravenala madagasariensis will grow a trunk to around 5m – 10m tall, with the foliage fanning out from the top.
As a feature palm tree it is unbeatable, it also works well in many tropical landscaping situations. However this is a plant that should be planted away from swimming pools as they do drop leaf litter. We would also suggest planting this tree away from high traffic areas for similar reasons.
The name Travellers Palm comes from the ability of the stems or leaf folds to hold water, simply a way of surviving. However its name comes from the water that was collected so travellers could quench their thirst.
Fast growing it can be grown in containers however it is at its best suited to growing in the ground.
How To Grow Ravenala madagasariensis – Basic Care
A semi shaded position and humus rich moist soil is best. These palms do require warmth and a little humidity to thrive and do not like frosts.
A regular application of a general purpose slow release fertilizer in spring, and keep moist through summer. Cultivation is by division of clumps or propagation from seed.
Also known as the East West palm the growing conditions are as follows.
- Tropical to sub tropical climate
- Temperature range 17 – 29C
- Medium to high humidity 70% however tolerant of lower humidity.
- Soil needs to be well drained.
- Watering or rainfall needs to regular, extra watering may be required during long hot dry summers.
- Mulching around the plants will help maintain a cool moist root run as well as suppress weeds.
- Fertiliser is not always needed in good soil, in poor soil or if the plant is not growing well a regular application of a slow release organic type fertiliser will improve growth.
- Well drained soil.
- Humus rich soil.
Where to Buy Ravenala madagascariensis
Clays Rd Mullumbimby NSW 2482
Wholesale Palm Trees. Large range of palm trees in 45L bags at 5-6 years of age from 1-4 meters depending on variety. Available from QLD to Victoria.
www.palmsonline.com.au
email ask@plantmark.com.au
One of Australia's largest wholesale trade nurseries. Over 30,000 species available, tubestock to advanced trees, an almost unlimited choice of plants.
www.plantmark.com.au
EAST COAST PALM NURSERY
15 Maroolingar Road Captain Creek QLD: 4677
phone: 07 49749191
Palm Nursery specialising in wholesale stock. Also large stocks of mature palms and cycads in ground and potted stock.