This is a spectacular plant – probably the most unusual tree ever to find. The huge leaves of the adult plant are up to 10’long, 10 to 20” wide and arrange like the slats of a giant fan. The young plant has a subterranean trunk which, in the adult plant, emerges above ground as a palm-like trunk, with the distinct rings of leaf scars.  The trunk can grow up to 1’ in diameter.

The adult plant produces a multitude of creamy white flowers that resemble those of the giant Bird of Paradise. A mature Traveler Palm may bloom year round. The brown seed pods contain bright blue seeds.

The Traveler Palm is not truly a palm. It belongs to the Streliziaceae, and a relative of the Bird of Paradise and Banana plants.

Hardiness Zone – 10-11. It is possible to grow in zone 9 if planted in a sheltered location, close to the wall of the house to protect from the occasional frost.
Bloom – Creamy white
Winter – Not applicable.
Mature Height - This plant can grow to 30-60'. If it is planted in a container, it can be kept smaller.
Sun – The young plant needs filtered light. When adult, it prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade.
Water - Keep soil evenly moist.
Fertilizer – The Travelers Palm is a heavy feeder – fertilize it frequently with balanced  fertilizer.
Soil - This plant is adaptable to different soils, but needs a well drained mix.
Container - This is an excellent container plant.