Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Strelitziaceae

Genus:

Ravenala

Species:

Ravenala madagascariensis

USDA Symbol:

RAMA7

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb , Tree

Height:

1200 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

jan,feb,mar,apr,may,jun,jul,aug,sep,oct,nov,dec

Bloom Colors:

white, cream

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, lemurs

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

native to humid lowland forests; prefers organic-rich soils

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

None required

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

30–180 days

Notes:

Seeds have a hard blue aril that should be removed and soaked before sowing. Germination is erratic and can take several months in warm, moist conditions.