Ravenala madagascariensis, the Traveler's Palm, is part of the Streliziaceae, Bird of Paradise family. Originally from Madagascar, it grows abundantly in Suriname. Although this plant is called a palm; it is not a true palm. It grows up to 40' tall. The leaves are arranged in a fan-shaped manner; it has a rather short, palm like trunk and take colorations of yellow and orange. The leaves are up to four meters in length. The small white flowers are held in bracts. The tree will bloom all year. The fruits are brown while the seeds are blue. Hardiness zones 9-11, (-5øC/25øF, 4øC/40øF) in Winter. Protect from frost or plant in frost free locations. Can also be grown indoors or in the greenhouse. It grows well on moist and rich sandy loam and clay soils. Requires consistently moist soil; do not let dry out between waterings. It responds well to fertiliser, especially if it is high in nitrogen during the growing season, this produces better growth and foliage. Grow in partial sun to full sun.