ravenala
Noun: 1. A large, tropical, treelike plant (Ravenala madagascariensis) characterized by a distinctive fan-shaped crown of long, banana-like leaves. It is known for its edible nuts, leafstalks that contain a clear, watery sap, and its historical reputation as a source of emergency water for travelers.
The word "ravenala" is used as a singular noun to refer to the specific plant species. It is often capitalized when referring to the botanical genus Ravenala. - The ravenala, or traveler's tree, is native to Madagascar. - We rested in the shade of a large ravenala.
- In botanical contexts, "Ravenala" (capitalized) refers to the genus within the family Strelitziaceae.
- The plant's common name, "traveler's palm" or "traveler's tree," derives from the legend that the sheaths at the base of its leaf stalks collect rainwater, providing a drink for travelers.
- Traveler's tree / Traveler's palm: The most common English common names for the .
- Strelitziaceae: The plant family to which the ravenala belongs, which also includes the bird-of-paradise flower ().
- Traveler's tree
- Traveler's palm
The primary meaning of "ravenala" is the specific botanical plant. Its defining characteristics are its large, fan-shaped leaf arrangement, its status as a monocot (not a true tree), and the watery sap contained in its leaf stalks. The association with providing water for travelers is a key part of its identity in common names and lore.
- giant treelike plant having edible nuts and leafstalks that yield a refreshing drink of clear watery sap; reputedly an emergency source of water for travelers