Ravenala madagascariensis

taxobox
name = Travellers palm

---

regnum = Plantae
unranked_divisio = Angiosperms
unranked_classis = Monocots
unranked_ordo = Commelinids
ordo = Zingiberales
familia = Strelitziaceae
genus = "Ravenala"
species = "R. madagascariensis"
binomial = "Ravenala madagascariensis"
binomial_authority = Sonnerat|

"Ravenala madagascariensis", commonly known as Traveller's Tree or Travellers Palm, is a species of banana-like plant from Madagascar. It is not a true palm (family Arecaceae) but a member of the bird-of-paradise family, Strelitziaceae. It is called the travellers palm because the stems hold rainwater that can be used as an emergency drinking supply. The enormous paddle-shaped leaves are borne on long petioles in a distinctive fan shape aligned in a single plane. Unlike its close relative the Bird-of-paradise flower "Strelizia reginae", the flowers are small and inconspicuous. The plant is widely cultivated for its distinctive habit and foliage in tropical and subtropical regions.

"Ravenala madagascariensis" is the sole member of its genus and is closely related to the southern African genus "Strelitzia" and the South American genus "Phenakospermum". Some older classifications include these genera in the banana family (Musaceae).

Ruffed lemurs are a known pollinator of this plant, and given the size and structure of the inflorescences, as well as the lemur's selectivity, method of feeding, and long muzzle, this relationship is thought to have co-evolved.cite book | last = Garbutt | first = Nick | title = Mammals of Madagascar, A Complete Guide | publisher = A&C Black Publishers | year = 2007 | pages = 170-175 | isbn = 978-0-300-12550-4]

Culture

The plant requires a sunny spot (not full sun until it is larger). It responds well to fertiliser, especially if it is high in nitrogen during the growing season. This produces better growth and foliage. The plant grows to an average height of 7 meters and requires moderate water.

External links

* [http://www.floridata.com/ref/R/rave_mad.cfm "Ravenala madagascariensis"]
* [http://hort.ufl.edu/trees/RAVMADA.pdf "Ravenala madagascariensis"]

References