Dypsis cabadae
Dypsis cabadae
Cabada Palm
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Description
Dypsis cabadae, the Cabada palm, is a graceful, clustering palm with smooth, green canes ringed in white and soft, arching fronds. It thrives in bright, filtered light and warm, humid air, making a handsome tropical screen outdoors or a striking statement palm in large indoor spaces.
Common Names
Cabada PalmCabadae PalmCluster Palm
Context
nativeRegion
Madagascar, in warm lowland tropical habitats.
usdaZones
10–11 (possible in protected 9b)
companionPlants
Cordyline fruticosa (Ti Plant), Strelitzia nicolai (White Bird of Paradise), Alpinia zerumbet (Shell Ginger), Philodendron ‘Xanadu’, Neoregelia and Aechmea (Bromeliads), Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
culturalUses
Popular as a tropical screen or hedge, poolside accent, and large container/atrium specimen for resorts and interiorscapes.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, filtered light to partial sun; avoid harsh midday sun indoors. Acclimate gradually to direct light outdoors.
WateringKeep evenly moist but not soggy. Let the top 2–5 cm (1–2 in) of soil dry between waterings; reduce slightly in cooler months.
SoilWell-draining, rich mix: peat/coir + perlite + coarse sand or bark. Slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~6.0–7.0).
FertilizerUse a palm-specific slow‑release fertilizer with micronutrients (e.g., 8‑2‑12 + Mg, Mn, Fe) every 8–12 weeks in spring–summer; half strength for container plants.
HumidityPrefers high humidity (50–70%+). Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants; ensure good airflow.
TemperatureIdeal 18–32°C (65–90°F). Avoid prolonged exposure below 10–13°C (50–55°F) and cold drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitClumping, multi-stem (suckering) palm with pinnate, arching fronds and smooth, ringed green canes.
Mature SizeOutdoors 6–9 m tall and 2.5–4 m wide (20–30 ft by 8–12 ft); smaller in containers.
Growth RateModerate (faster in warm, humid climates).
BloomingSmall creamy-yellow inflorescences; modest ornamental value. Flowering mainly in warm seasons; rare indoors.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cool conditions.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of basal suckers, Seed
DifficultyModerate (division easiest; seed slow to germinate).
Best SeasonLate spring to early summer for division; warm season for seed.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove only dead or yellowing fronds at the base; avoid cutting green fronds or damaging canes.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when rootbound; step up 5–7 cm (2–3 in). Use a sturdy pot and avoid planting deeper than original level.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, scale, and mealybugs; treat early. Prevent root rot with sharp drainage. Provide micronutrients to avoid Mg/Mn deficiencies and tip burn from salts.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and people.
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