Ravenala

Family. Strelitziaceae.

Where does it grow? Island of Madagascar.

Description. Ravenala is a large and very attractive perennial evergreen plant, reminiscent of a palm tree, forming a powerful, low trunk with age. The leaves are paddle-shaped, green, up to 1.5 m long, with a pronounced central vein, located on very long bare petioles - up to 2 m, extending from each other. In the upper part of the plant they form a crown - a fan of 25 - 30 leaves. The flowers are small, cream-colored, collected in inflorescences - panicles up to 30 cm long. After flowering, fruits are formed, which become brown as they ripen and contain blue seeds.

Height. The tree in its natural environment reaches a height of 7 m; young plants are kept indoors. 

Ravenala at home

Temperature conditions

The plant is thermophilic and does not tolerate cool conditions. Grows well at normal room temperature.

Lighting

This species should be given a location where it will receive several hours of direct sunlight in the morning and evening. In autumn and winter, lighting should be as high as possible.

Care

The lower portion of the plant contains old, wilted leaves that should be removed to maintain a neat appearance. Large leaves can be gently sponged to remove dust. If possible, take the trees outside during the summer months.

Substrate

Nutritious soil, easily adaptable to various types of soil with neutral or slightly acidic pH and good drainage. A mixture based on peat with the addition of leaf humus, sphagnum moss, pine bark, fallen pine needles and small pieces of charcoal is suitable. The substrate must allow water and air to pass through well. 

Feeding

Ravenala responds well to fertilization during the active growth period. Feed monthly in spring and summer using a high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer.

Purpose

Decorative foliage plant with a very bright appearance.

Flowering time

Flowering does not occur in culture. 

Air humidity

At home, high air humidity should be provided. Ravenala prefers ventilated rooms with good air circulation.

Soil moisture

Water by completely soaking the earthen ball, but between waterings it should dry out to a depth of 3 - 5 cm. 

Transfer

As young plants grow, they are transplanted into larger pots in the spring. Replanting large plants is difficult due to their size, so simply replace the top layer of soil with fresh one. 

Reproduction

Fresh seeds are sown in spring. Seedlings are kept at a temperature of 23 - 25 ° C. 

Pests and diseases

Ravenala is rarely affected by Leaf Spot diseases or infestations. When moisture stagnates, root rot occurs.

Of the harmful insects, plants can be attacked by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.