Ravenala madagascariensis

The enormous paddle-shaped leaves are borne on long petioles, in a distinctive fan shape aligned in a single plane (distichous).

In tropical and subtropical regions, the plant is widely cultivated for its distinctive habit and foliage.

As the plant grows older, it progressively loses the lowest or oldest leaves and reveals a sturdy grey trunk.

[4] The foliar fan consists of 30 to 45 leaves for mature specimens, each as much as 36 feet (11  metres) in length.

The plant grows to an average height of 7 m (23 ft) and requires moderate water.

Ravenalas growing between two buildings in Kinshasa , Democratic Republic of Congo. The plane (here perpendicular to the north–south axis) of these plants is orientated to maximize daylight absorption.