Tropica Baum des Reisenden

The traveller's tree with its fan-shaped leaves cuts a very beautiful and funny figure. Its original name is Ravenala madagascariensis. The plant got its name because about 1.5 litres of water can accumulate in the long leaf stalks after rainfall. In an emergency, travellers could tap the water for drinking by piercing the stem. The imposing plant belongs to the banana family.

Originally, the traveller's tree was only found in Madagascar. Today it can be found throughout the tropics, as far away as Italy or perhaps in your own home.

The seeds can be grown indoors all year round. The seeds are covered with a natural blue wax coating. You must therefore first wash them with soapy water and then scald them with hot water to stimulate germination. The seeds are then soaked overnight in room temperature water. Then place the seeds 1 cm deep in moist potting compost. With this pre-treatment, the seeds will germinate safely and quickly in around 2 to 5 weeks.

The Ravenala loves a bright and sunny spot and can also be placed outdoors in a sheltered spot in summer; a little shade won't do any harm.

For healthy growth, the plant needs a large pot or tub with well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and plenty of water in summer. From April to October, you should feed it with pot plant fertiliser every 2 to 3 weeks.

The tree is not hardy and needs a bright location between 10° and 20° C. A conservatory is suitable. Indoors, you should spray the leaves from time to time due to the often dry heating air. Old brown leaves can be cut off at the lower end of the stem.

Seed pack with 8 seeds.