Traveler's Tree (Traveler's Palm) - Ravenala madagascariensis (Premium | 3/4-QT size)

We're now offering Traveler's Trees as a premium-sized plant in a 3/4-QT pot so you can get a head start on your garden. At first glance, you might think a Traveler's Tree is a Bird of Paradise or a Banana, and you aren't too far off; they are cousins with leaf and flower similarities. Traveler's Trees, however, have dramatic leaves that grow in one plane from east to west, rumored to help travelers orient themselves. In fact, the Traveler's Tree (sometimes called a Traveler's Palm) further helps weary wayfarers to quench their thirst because their hollow leaf bases can fill up with up to a quart of water after a good rainstorm. Not sure I would actually drink it though, because it can quickly become stagnant, but hey, sometimes voyagers get desperate on the road. 

Traveler's Tree culture is similar to that of a Bird of Paradise. For the first year or so, grow your Traveler's Tree in a pot with bright light but not full sun. After it grows larger, plant it in its final position in full sun, part sun, or light shade. Traveler's Trees are cold hardy in frost-free locations. Be sure to provide protection if you're in an area that gets frosty. 

• Average mature height: 20-30 feet
• Fertilizer: A heavy feeder. Responds well to fertilization.
• Light: Part sun and then full sun to part shade after the first year
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
• Zones: 9-11