Ravinala

The Ravinala is found everywhere on Madagascar, especially along the eastern coastal areas. Since its branches collect water, it is known as the Traveller's tree or palm, providing water for the thirsty traveller. Additionally, the plant simplifies orientation based on the positioning of its leaves, which follow the sun's movement from east to west.

The plant is used for constructing homes. While the leaves are used for roofs, the trunk is used for floors. Since the population is growing and houses often need replacing, there is a constant demand for this natural building material.

The heart, known as "Ovitra", at the top of the stem, is cooked and consumed as a vegetable in Madagascar. It has a slightly bitter taste and is used in local cuisine as well as for medicinal purposes, such as lowering high albumin levels.

Quick facts

• Scientific name: Ravenala madagascariensis
• English common names: Traveller's tree or Traveller's palm
• Malagasy name: Ravinala, meaning forest leaves (ravina = leaves, ala = forest).
• Size: Up to about 30 metres with a trunk of about 60 cm.
• Classification: The Ravinala is neither a palm nor a tree, but rather a plant.

Further information

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravenala_madagascariensis
• https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Specific-uses-of-the-four-varieties-of-Ravenala-madagascariensis-according-to-surveys_tbl2_263920963
• Ethnobotanical and economic value of Ravenala madagascariensis Sonn. in Eastern Madagascar (PDF)