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 PalmHow 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.
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
More Species in Chamaedorea Genus
Chamaedorea metallica Metallic Palm
Chamaedorea cataractarum Cascade Palm
Chamaedorea deckeriana
Chamaedorea tepejilote Pacaya Palm
Chamaedorea oblongata
Chamaedorea hooperiana
Chamaedorea plumosa
Chamaedorea costaricana Bamboo Palm
Chamaedorea atrovirens Cascade Palm
