Chamaedorea elegans
Chamaedorea elegans
Parlor Palm
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Taxonomy
Family Arecaceae · Genus Chamaedorea
Common Names
Parlor PalmNeanthe Bella PalmGood Luck Palm
Context
nativeRegion
Rainforests of Southern Mexico and Guatemala.
usdaZones
10–12 (grown as a houseplant elsewhere)
companionPlants
Aspidistra elatior, Sansevieria trifasciata, Zamioculcas zamiifolia
culturalUses
Popular ornamental houseplant; valued for air purification and tolerance of indoor conditions.
Care
Care Requirements
LightPrefers bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light conditions; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.
WateringAllow the top inch of soil to dry before watering; err on the side of under-watering. Reduce watering in winter.
SoilWell-draining, peat-based potting mix. Avoid heavy or soggy soils.
FertilizerFeed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. Withhold feed in fall and winter.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity; benefits from occasional misting in dry air.
TemperatureThrives between 18–27°C (65–80°F). Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitClumping, single-stemmed palm with slender green stems and delicate, pinnate fronds.
Mature SizeUsually 1–1.8 m (3–6 ft) indoors; rarely up to 2.5 m (8 ft) in optimal conditions.
Growth RateSlow to moderate growth rate.
BloomingProduces small, yellowish flowers on panicles indoors only rarely.
DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in winter.
Propagation
Methodsseed, division
DifficultyModerate (seed very slow; division less reliable)
Best SeasonSpring
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove brown or yellowing fronds at the base. Minimal pruning needed.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when rootbound, in spring.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Watch for root rot from overwatering.
ToxicityNon-toxic to pets and humans.
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