Description:
Areca Palms are also known as butterfly palm, golden cane palm, bamboo palm. The feathery, arching fronds of the Areca Palm each have up to 100 leaflets and multiple cane like stems produce an attractive plant that demands attention. Areca palms can add 15-25 cm (6 to 10 inches) of growth per year until they reach a mature height of 1.8-2.1 metres (6 or 7 feet).
Botanical Classification: Dypsis lutescens
Pets And Kids:
Not poisonous to dogs and cats
Plant Parent Care Tips:
- Areca palms like a tight container, and crowded roots help limit the size of the plant.
- Provide good drainage and don’t over-water. Over-watering is the easiest way to kill an Areca Palm.
General Care:
Water:
Allow the top of the soil to dry out between waterings, and water less often during the winter months. Use the finger test. Place your finger in the soil; if you feel moisture in the top inch or two, it isn’t ready for watering.
Sunlight:
Bright indirect light. Leaves will turn yellowish-green in direct sunlight.
Placement:
Will do best in a room with a south- or west-facing window.
Food:
Fertilize in spring and summer only using half-strength liquid fertilizer
Common Issues:
Yellowing leaves – Symptom of too much direct sunlight
Brown leaf tips – Can be a symptom of over or under-watering or low humidity.
Interesting Fact
A 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in) Areca Palm will transpire 1 litre of water in a single day, making it a great humidifier.