the genus
RAVENEA

Named after Louis Ravene, a French Consular Official.

Subfamily: Ceroxyloideae
Tribe: Ceroxyleae

A genus of 17 species, endemic to Madagascar and the Comoro Islands, Ravenea are solitary, pinnate-leafed, unarmed and dioecious, with their stems sometimes swollen at the base. They range in size from small and slender to large and even massive specimens; absent of crownshaft, their long fronds can form large and impressive crowns. These palms can be found growing in wet as well as dry conditions, from sea level to over a mile in elevation. Their inflorescences arise among their leaves, are enclosed within a number of persistent bracts, their fruits globose, often brightly colored, with a pebbly skin. The R. rivularis, or Majesty Palm, is the only species much cultivated outside of botanical gardens, is soaring in popularity, yet not well suited to below freezing temperatures. Of more interest to us is a rare species, R. xerophila, one of the most unusual palms of Madagascar, found in the south, atypically growing in very dry sites. With its gray, V-shaped and recurving leaves, it has some resemblance to the Butia.

Culture: Ravenea thrive in partial shade to sunny areas, preferring humus rich soils. They appreciate good drainage. These palms can be slow to fast growing, are intolerant of drought, and most are able to withstand damp soils, even flooding.

Ravenea xerophila
Cold Tolerance: 24F (-5C) USDA Zones: 9b-11

Typical Height: 17' Growth Rate: Slow
Habit: Solitary

Status: In Stock
Available Range: Liners - 7gal.