Light. Best growth comes in full sun. It also grows in partial shade.
Water. Water regularly while it establishes. Once settled it has moderate drought tolerance, so water it during long dry spells.
Soil and feeding. Grow it in fertile, well-drained soil high in organic matter. It tolerates sand, clay and slightly alkaline soil.
Size. Grows to about 25 ft with a 15–18 ft spread; old plants can reach 30 ft. Each leaf is 6–10 ft long, held in a flat fan.
Pruning. Prune to keep a strong structure. Wind usually tears the huge leaves, so a sheltered spot keeps it tidier.
Problems to watch. Cercospora leaf spot is a very serious disease. Insect pests are seldom a concern.
Good to know. Despite the name, it belongs to the bird-of-paradise family, not the palms. Plant it only in frost-free spots, away from salt spray.
Sources: UF/IFAS Ask IFAS (EDIS) ST565: Ravenala madagascariensis: Travelers-Tree
