The Ravenala madagascariensis, more commonly known as the Traveller’s Tree, embodies exoticism and elegance at the heart of tropical landscapes. Native to Madagascar, this iconic plant is a true emblem of the island, recognised for its large, fan-shaped leaves reminiscent of those of a banana tree. Its slender trunk, similar to that of a palm tree, can grow up to 20 metres tall, creating a majestic silhouette. The Traveller’s Tree is often admired in botanical gardens such as Au Bois Vert in Ivato, near Antananarivo, where it serves as an aesthetic focal point.
Its evocative name originates from two fascinating attributes. Firstly, its stems contain a reservoir of potable water, which once made it a valuable ally for thirsty travellers crossing arid regions. Secondly, the almost perfect east-to-west alignment of its leaves once served as a natural compass for explorers. This unique characteristic makes it not only a practical plant but also a source of inspiration and wonder for nature enthusiasts.
In its natural habitat, the Ravenala madagascariensis or Traveller’s Tree thrives in humid tropical climates, though it can also adapt to drier conditions. Its flowering, subtle yet charming, produces white blossoms nestled at the base of the leaves, usually between September and February. Integrating this plant into spaces such as the botanical garden of the Au Bois Vert hotel is an excellent way to highlight the connection between nature and tropical architecture.
Plant use
The Traveller’s Tree has a multitude of uses, both traditional and modern. In Madagascar, local populations make use of various parts of the plant in their daily lives. The leaves, for instance, are often used to make roofs or partitions in traditional constructions, thanks to their large size and natural durability. Fibres extracted from the stems are employed in the production of ropes or handicrafts, while the seeds, rich in oils, are used in the preparation of certain traditional remedies. One of its most famous uses is the water contained in the petioles of the leaves. Although not always of optimal quality, this water could once save lives during long journeys. This characteristic earned it the nickname Traveller’s Tree. In modern settings, the plant is widely used as a decorative element in tropical gardens, lodges, and hotels, particularly in warm regions. Its architectural appearance and ease of maintenance make it a popular choice for beautifying spaces such as restaurants or lodges like Au Bois Vert near Ivato. Beyond its ornamental role, Ravenala madagascariensis is also a subject of study in botanical gardens to better understand tropical ecosystems. In the botanical garden of Au Bois Vert, this plant serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving biodiversity while allowing visitors to discover an iconic aspect of Malagasy flora.
Key information
| Common name | Traveller’s Tree |
| Scientific name | Ravenala madagascariensis |
| Origin | Madagascar |
| Natural habitat | Humid tropical regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | From September to February |
