Ravenea rivularis

Common names

Majestic Palm.

Curiosities

Origin

Madagascar.

Habitat

Grows in riverbanks, marshy areas, and forests at 600 meters above sea level. Species of special concern.

Morphology

A solitary palm, up to 25 m. Young plants have an arched crown. Petioles and rachis are covered with white, woolly fibres. Bright green leaves, around 2-2.5 m long, with 20-25 leaflets at each side of the rachis. A white trunk, with the scars of fallen leaves. Small, globular fruits, 7-8 mm in diameter, red when ripe.

Climate

Tropical to warm temperate. This palm has tolerated temperatures down to –2.8ºC (26.9ºF, USDA Zone 9b).

Germination

Seeds quickly lose they germinating potential. Fresh seeds germinate in 2-4 months.

Growing

A very common inside palm, although is not always considered very adaptable. A solitary palm, usually planted in groups. Makes a good pot plant as a youngster. Fast growing. Tolerates full sun and light frosts. Shows a good response to fertilizers, apply micronutrient fertilizers if the plant goes yellowish. Needs a rich and well-drained soil.