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Traveller’s Palm

Traveller's Palm, Ravenala
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Traveller’s Palm Facts

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Traveller’s Palm Physical Description

The Traveller’s Palm represents a form of monocotyledonous (now that makes a mouthful) flowering plant. There exist four known varieties of this species.

The varieties attain an average height of about 23 ft (7 m). However, some individuals may also grow much larger under ideal circumstances.

The leaves grow quite large and rather sturdy, as well as roughly paddle-shaped.  There are also numerous large sheaths, which tend to hold rainwater.

The flowers of the Traveller’s Palm also develop large and primarily white with a blending of other colors. These, again, bear a strong resemblance to those of the closely related Bird of Paradise flower.

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Traveller’s Palm Ecological Uniqueness

The Traveller’s Palm also plays an important role in its environment. The brackish water accumulated within its sheaths is unfit for human consumption. However, it provides a needed resource for animals and insects.

This unique plant has evolved an incredible inter-dependency with ruffed lemurs, native to the same region. The animal, which feeds primarily on the Traveller’s Palm, serves as the primary pollinator of the palm.

Though restricted to Madagascar, the plant grows equally well in all habitats within that range.

This interesting plant is a dioecious species. Male trees also produce a single trunk, while female trees often produce multiple trunks.

Species Sharing Its Range

Check out our other articles on 7 Splendid Canary Islands Species, Wilson’s Bird-of-paradise, Macquarie Island, Ohlone Tiger Beetle, Snowshoe Hare, Purple Frog, Rosy Veincap, Gila Monster

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