RAVENALA PALM – TRAVELER’S PALM

Anecdotally known as the east-west palm or the traveler’s palm, Ravenala madagascariensis. Its distinctive fan-shaped leaves, which grow in an east-west orientation by nature, give rise to its name. This tree, which is native to Madagascar, was once used to determine direction, much like a compass. The leaf bases and bracts of this plant also catch and store rainfall, making it a beautiful find for thirsty visitors who may subsequently find up to a half-gallon of fresh water contained within it. There is even folklore that says you may make a wish, and it will come true if you stand in front of a traveler’s palm, making it a very lucky discovery. Since then, it has grown to be one of the most popular outdoor/indoor tropical plants for workplaces and homes.