Ravenala madagascariensis, also known as the Traveller’s Palm, is a striking plant native to Madagascar, famous for its large, fan-shaped leaves that grow in a single plane. Its unique structure can collect rainwater at the base of each leaf, which is said to have helped thirsty travellers find water — giving the plant its common name. Traveller’s Palms produce clusters of blue flowers that attract birds, insects, and even lemurs, which help pollinate the plant as they feed on the nectar. Though it looks like a palm, it is actually more closely related to banana plants.

Find this impressive plant in the Amazonica Glasshouse.

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