Howea forsteriana aka Kentia Palm
Taxonomy ID: 244
The Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana) is an elegant and expensive species of palm, native to Lord Howe Island off the eastern Australian coast. It is a slow-growing and durable species that can reach up to 10 m (33 ft) tall with fronds reaching 3 m (10 ft) long and, for indoor containerized growing, heights can fall anywhere between 5 to 12 ft. It is named after Johann Reinhold Forster and Georg Forster, father and son, who accompanied Captain Cook on his second voyage to the Pacific in 1772–1775 and is considered Vulnerable by the World Conservation Union. This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit and is traded as an ornamental garden or house plant, tightly regulated on Lord Howe Island. Kentia palms are popular indoor plants in temperate climates since they are well-suited to containers and can survive dust, low light, central heating, and drought. Due to their large size, they can be used as focal points in interior and exterior landscapes.
Common names
Kentia Palm, Sentrypalm, Thatch Palm, Areca PalmMore information about Kentia Palm
How difficult is it to take care of Kentia Palm
Kentia Palm presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
What is the growth pattern and size of Kentia Palm?
Kentia Palm grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
What is the region of origin of Kentia Palm
Kentia Palm’s native range is Lord Howe Island, Australia.
What are the water needs for Kentia Palm
Kentia Palm should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Kentia Palm
Kentia 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.
What is the sunlight requirement for Kentia Palm
To ensure optimal growth, the Kentia 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.
What's the right humidity for Kentia Palm
No additional humidity is required for the Kentia 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.
How to fertilize Kentia Palm
The growth rate of Kentia Palm is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.
Is Kentia Palm toxic to humans/pets?
Kentia Palm is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Is Kentia Palm flowering?
Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Kentia Palm blooming.
More info:
Wikipedia
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