Parlour palm
Description
Chamaedora elegans or better known as Parlour Palm is a truly versatile, simple yet reliable plant. As its species name already suggests, it ads a touch of elegance to any space, hence why it's been cultivated since the Victorian era and used to decorate from grand mansions to restaurants, cafes, shops or offices.
Size: 12 cm diameter x 50cm height
Origin: Rainforests in Southern Mexico and Guatemala
Care
Light: Bright indirect light
Humidity: Moderate
Temperature: Warm conditions, 18°-24°C, with a minimum of 10°C
Watering: Allow the top 2-3 cm of the compost to dry between waterings when the plant is actively growing, usually from spring through autumn. Reduce watering frequency in winter if light levels are lower.
Feeding: Use half the recommended dose of a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks from spring through autumn, or whenever you can see active growth.
Soil: Multipurpose compost mixed with orchid bark and perlite.
Troubleshooting: Crispy leaf tips may be caused by dry air, underwatering or cold temperatures. You can help increase humidity levels with a humidifier. Make sure your plant is in a warm room. You can cut brown tips off, but do not cut into the green part of the leaf. Yellow leaves at the top of the plant may indicate over watering.
Tip: This plant is safe around pets, but keep it away from direct sunlight as it might scorch the leaves. Cut off any brown or yellowing old fronds at the base, and when repotting choose a pot that just about fits the root ball.
Did you know? Parlour palms can grow well over 2 metres tall so long as they are repotted every year.