Chamaedorea elegans aka Parlor Palm

Taxonomy

Chamaedorea elegans, also known as the neanthe bella palm or parlour palm, is a species of small palm tree native to the tropical rainforests in Southern Mexico and Guatemala. With its light green long stems and yellow fragrant flowers, this beautiful plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit and is one of the most extensively sold houseplant palms in the world. The genus name Chamaedorea, coming from Ancient Greek roots, means "gift on the ground" and these small palms usually only max out at 20ft/6m tall, making them perfect for domestic use as houseplants around the world.

Common names

Parlor Palm, Parlour Palm, Good Luck Palm

How to care for Parlor Palm

Difficulty

Parlor Palm presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Parlor Palm does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

Parlor 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 Parlor 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 Parlor Palm to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Parlor Palm is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Parlor 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 Parlor 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

Parlor Palm grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Parlor 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 Parlor Palm blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia