The Traveller's Palm, scientifically known as Ravenala madagascariensis, is a striking evergreen plant native to Madagascar. It's not a true palm, but a member of the Strelitziaceae family, closely related to banana plants and birds of paradise. It's easily recognized by its large, fan-shaped leaves that are arranged in a distinctive fan-like pattern, resembling a giant Chinese fan.

Here's a more detailed description:

Key Features:

Leaves:

The most striking feature is the large, paddle-shaped leaves, often described as fan-like or peacock's tail-like. They are borne on long petioles and are arranged in a flat, fan-shaped pattern, resembling a handheld fan. 

Trunk:

While young plants are trunk-less, they develop a trunk as they mature. 

Flowers:

The Traveller's Palm produces small white flowers in foot-long inflorescences, which are held in bracts. 

Water Collection:

The name "Traveller's Palm" comes from the belief that rainwater collects in the leaf sheaths and bracts, providing a source of drinking water for travelers. 

Size:

It can grow to be quite large, with heights ranging from 30 to 50 feet and widths of 15 to 25 feet. 

Botanical Information:

• Scientific Name: Ravenala madagascariensis.
• Family: Strelitziaceae.
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• Native to: Madagascar.
• Not a true palm: While it's commonly called a palm, it's actually more closely related to banana plants and birds of paradise. 

Other Notable Points:

• Sunlight: It thrives in bright, direct sunlight.
• Watering: It prefers regular watering, but it's also relatively drought-tolerant.
• Soil: It grows well in well-draining soil.
• Pests and Diseases: It's generally resistant to pests and diseases.