Traveller's palm seed pods. Open seed pods of the traveller's palm tree (Ravenala madagascariensis). Inside are numerous bright blue seeds, which are attractive to birds as food. As a seed passes through a bird's digestive tract, the tough outer seed coat (aril) is weakened, thus aiding germination of the seed when it later passes out of the bird in its faeces. The traveller's palm is endemic to Madagascar. It has a fan of large leaves that resemble those of the banana tree, supported by a slatted trunk. It is so-called because water collects in the leaves, providing a drink for thirsty travellers.