Chamaedorea cataractarum aka Cascade Palm
Taxonomy
Chamaedorea cataractarum, commonly known as the cat palm, cascade palm, or cataract palm, is a small and bushy palm tree that is native to Southern Mexico and Central America. Its slender cane-like leaves can grow up to 3.3 feet (1 m) indoors and up to 6.6 feet (2 m) outdoors. The plant can reproduce via seeds and grow new plants at the base. The cat palm is a perfect choice for sprucing up the corner of a room near a window, with its dark green leaves and airy arching fronds that can brighten up any space. Its flexible fronds allow it to withstand seasonal flooding, making it a popular choice to grow along rivers and other waterways in marshy soil. The flower stalks can be either male or female and the drooping flowers are quite unusual, being bright yellow and extending around a flower spike. Overall, the cat palm is an appealing and easy-to-care-for plant that can add a touch of tropical beauty to any indoor or outdoor space.
Common names
Cascade Palm, Cat PalmHow to care for Cascade Palm
Difficulty
Cascade Palm presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Cascade Palm does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
Cascade Palm loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Cascade Palm prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Cascade Palm to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Cascade Palm is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Humidity
No additional humidity is required for the Cascade Palm. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Cascade Palm is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
The Cascade Palm is a clump-forming species, with new growth originating from the soil surrounding the main plant.
Region of origin
Cascade Palm’s native range is Tropical and Subtropical Americas.
Flower
Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Cascade Palm blooming.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Chamaedorea Genus
Chamaedorea cataractarum Cascade Palm
Chamaedorea deckeriana
Chamaedorea tepejilote Pacaya Palm
Chamaedorea hooperiana
Chamaedorea atrovirens Cascade Palm
Chamaedorea metallica Metallic Palm
Chamaedorea plumosa
Chamaedorea pinnatifrons Cane Mill
Chamaedorea costaricana Bamboo Palm
