Traveler’s Palm

Common NamesTraveler’s Palm,
Scientific NameRavenala madagascariensis
Hardiness Zones9a-11
Mature Height30-40 Feet, 15-20 Foot Spread
Growth RateModerate
Flower ProminenceUp to 2 Feet in Diameter
Flower ColorWhite
BloomsAll Year
Water NeedsMoist, Well Drained
Cold ToleranceModerately Cold Hardy
Light NeedsFull Sun is Ideal, Tolerates Moderate Shade
travelers palm
Click to Enlarge

“The traveler sees what he sees; the tourist sees what he has come to see.” Gilbert K. Chesterton (1874-1936)

Looking like a cross between a banana plant and a palm tree (Why do they call them palms? Look at your open hand.), the Traveler’s Palm is absolutely luscious. It is a majestic species, destined to reign over any landscape it inhabits. Not so regal to begin with, it hides its trunk underground when young and eventually, when the leaves and petioles fall off and the trunk is revealed, its obvious leaf scar rings show its true palm heritage. Perhaps it’s the symmetry that fascinates us—somewhat rare in the world of trees. Its large white flowers are showy and bloom all year.

This palm, itself, is a traveler. Originating in far-off Madagascar, it finds a welcome home in the Orlando area. Creating an exotic aura, it becomes the star of any landscape where it’s stationed, provided you give it plenty of room to spread its fan. It’s a pleasure to care for as it plays the first lovely notes of a tropically orchestrated landscape.

Share

Buy at an Orlando Nursery near you

  • Pokey’s Lake Jem Citrus Nursery

    3259 N. Orange Blossom Trail Zellwood, FL 32798

    Only Fruit Trees, no shipping
locationimage