Parlor Palm

Parlor Palm key facts

Growing Difficulty

Beginner-friendly

Lifespan

Perennial (evergreen)

Size

About 0.6-1.5 m in pots; around 2 m outdoors in warm climates

Watering

Occasionally in the growing season; none in winter

Light & Placement

Bright indirect light is best, though it tolerates low light. A north- or east-facing window suits it.

Watering

In a well-drained mix, water once the surface has dried slightly. It tolerates short dry spells but grows more lushly in moist soil. Avoid overwatering.

Temperature & Overwintering

Protect it from cold draughts from windows, doors and vents. Keep it in a warm room in winter.

Soil & Repotting

Use a humus-rich houseplant or container mix. Repot only when needed; every other year is usually enough.

Fertiliser

Feed occasionally in the growing season and not in winter.

Pests & Cautions

Watch for spider mites and mealybugs; misting and wiping the leaves with a damp cloth help prevent them. The plant is listed as non-toxic to dogs and cats, but the fruit pulp can irritate skin.

About Parlor Palm

Parlor Palm is an easy-care, compact houseplant with delicate feathery fronds that tolerates low light and dry indoor air well. Here's how to place, water, and repot it, plus answers to common questions.

7 things to know before growing Parlor Palm

1. 1Choose Bright Shade

   Parlor Palm's leaves can scorch in direct sun, so a spot with soft, filtered light behind a sheer curtain works best. It tolerates dim interiors reasonably well, but very low light can cause leggy growth, so place it as close to a window as practical.

2. 2Water When Soil Dries

   Wait until the top of the soil feels dry, then water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so empty any water left in the saucer and avoid keeping the soil constantly damp.

3. 3Use Well-Draining Soil

   A standard houseplant potting mix amended with perlite gives roots the drainage they need to stay healthy. Soil that retains too much moisture raises the risk of root rot, so adding drainage material at the bottom of the pot also helps.

4. 4Repot Every 2-3 Years

   Because it grows slowly, Parlor Palm doesn't need frequent repotting. When roots start showing through the drainage holes or water drains poorly, move it into a slightly larger pot roughly every two to three years.

5. 5Ease Off Watering in Winter

   Growth slows in winter, so the soil dries out more slowly and watering should be reduced accordingly. Leaves can also be damaged by cold drafts near windows, so it helps to move the plant slightly away from the glass on cold nights.

6. 6Check the Leaf Tips

   When choosing a plant, look for leaf tips that aren't browned or dried out, and check that the base feels stable rather than loose in the soil. Firm, evenly deep-green fronds are a good sign of a healthy plant.

7. 7Mist to Prevent Dryness

   Although Parlor Palm tolerates dry indoor air well, it's best kept away from direct air-conditioner drafts, and occasional misting can help prevent dry leaf tips and discourage spider mites. Wiping dust off the fronds also keeps them photosynthesizing efficiently.

Frequently asked questions about Parlor Palm

Q.Is Parlor Palm easy for beginners?

A.Yes, Parlor Palm is a hardy, low-difficulty houseplant that's well suited to first-time growers. It tolerates low light and dry indoor air reasonably well, making it manageable even in rooms with limited sunlight.

Q.How big does it grow?

A.Indoors, the stems usually stay under 1.5 meters. Potted plants often have three or more stems planted together, and over time some may be crowded out and die.

Q.Is it safe to keep around pets?

A.Parlor Palm is generally considered non-toxic to dogs and cats. That said, individual animals can react differently, so it's a good idea to consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Q.How often should I water it?

A.Rather than following a fixed schedule, water thoroughly whenever the surface of the soil feels dry, until water drains from the bottom of the pot. How quickly the soil dries depends on the season and location, so adjust based on what you observe.

Q.How long does it live, and can it be grown long-term?

A.Parlor Palm is an evergreen perennial that can be enjoyed for many years with proper care. Since it grows slowly, patience with repotting and adjusting its placement over time pays off.

Handy Growing Tools for Parlor Palm

Learn more about Parlor Palm in the encyclopedia

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