Edward F. Gilman, Dennis G. Watson, Ryan W. Klein, Andrew K. Koeser, Deborah R. Hilbert, and Drew C. McLean
Introduction
Travelers-tree is ideal for creating an exotic, tropical effect with its very large, banana-like leaves, each up to ten feet long and held in fan-shaped formation, and the unusual, small, creamy white flowers which are held erect in boat-shaped bracts. Leaves are usually seen tattered and torn from exposure to the wind. Travelers-tree will reach a height of 30 feet and a spread of 18 feet, growing at a moderate rate. It makes a nice tropical accent in a large landscape, growing too large for most modest-sized yards. The common name is derived from the fact that weary travelers would quench their thirst on the rainwater collected in the enlarged sheaths at the base of the leaves.
Figure 1. Full Form—Ravenala madagascariensis: travelers-tree Credit: Ed Gilman, UF/IFAS
Fruit characteristics: does not attract wildlife; not showy; fruit/leaves not a litter problem; seeds are brown and are covered in a bright blue, fiber-like aril
Fruiting: year-round
Trunk and Branches
Trunk/branches: branches don't droop; showy; typically multi-trunked; no thorns
Bark: brown to gray, with remnant leaf bases that wear away to horizontal lines or leaf base scars with age
Travelers-tree will produce best growth in full sun, though small potted plants may be grown in shade for a period of time. Plants should be grown on fertile soils, high in organic matter, and routinely cared for. Plants should be grown only in frost-free locations.
Propagation is by division of basal suckers or by seed, which are slow to germinate.
Pests
No pests are of major concern.
Diseases
Cercospora leaf-spot is a very serious disease problem.
Reference
Koeser, A.K., Friedman, M.H., Hasing, G., Finley, H., Schelb, J. 2017. Trees: South Florida and the Keys. Gainesville: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.
