Parlor Palm Care Guide
Parlor Palms (Chamaedorea elegans) are compact, elegant palms perfect for indoor growing. Known for their tolerance of lower light and smaller size, they're ideal for beginners and smaller spaces.
Light Requirements
Thrive in low to medium, indirect light. One of the few palms that tolerates lower light conditions well. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the delicate fronds.
Watering
Water when top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Prefer consistent moisture but allow slight drying between waterings. Reduce watering in winter months.
Soil & Fertilizer
Use well-draining potting mix with good organic content. Fertilize every 2-3 months during growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer. They're light feeders.
Temperature & Humidity
Prefer temperatures 65-80°F. Adapt to normal household humidity but appreciate higher levels (40%+). More tolerant of dry air than most palms.
Size & Growth
Slow-growing, typically reaching 3-6 feet indoors. Compact size makes them perfect for tabletops, desks, or small spaces.
Air Purifying
Excellent air purifier, removing formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air. Great choice for offices and bedrooms.
Common Problems
- Brown leaf tips: Low humidity, fluoride in water, or overfertilizing
- Yellow fronds: Natural aging or overwatering
- Spider mites: Can occur in very dry conditions
- Slow growth: Normal for this species, be patient
Flowering
Mature plants may produce small yellow flowers followed by small black berries. This is normal and won't harm the plant.
Why Choose Parlor Palm
Perfect beginner palm due to low light tolerance, compact size, and forgiving nature. Great for offices, bathrooms, or any indoor space.