Marojejya darianii or Ravimbe (“Big Leaf Palm”)
This stunning palm is endemic to northeast Madagascar swamps, where it occurs between Ampasimanolotra and Masoala Peninsula. It has a single broad trunk, and is admired for its large (up to 40 feet long), entire leaves that are held held stiffly erect, in shuttlecock fashion.
The Marojejya darianii is endangered. Threats to this species include habitat loss through habitat loss for agriculture and logging, and from harvesting of seed for international trade which likely impacts the natural regeneration potential of this species.
The population of this species is small as only about 80 mature trees in total are estimated across the five widely separated (severely fragmented) sites where it occurs.
Ever since its discovery in the wild in 1983, this has been one of the most sought-after of all Madagascar palms. It is named for it’s founder, Dr. Mardy Darian.
There is one specimen of the Marojejya darianii species growing in the Merwin Palm Collection, and while still a juvenile tree, as shown rapid growth in the recent rains on Maui’s north shore.
Want to “virtually explore” the Merwin Palm Collection? Search through our archive of Palm Facts of the Week, featuring palms hand-planted by W.S Merwin. To search through the list of Merwin Palms, visit our online database.
If you’re inspired to help The Merwin Conservancy preserve and care for the Merwin Palm Collection into the future, please consider making a tax-deductible donation.
Many photos of this specific species can be seen on Palm Pedia’s page dedicated to it.