Areca Palm, otherwise known as Dypsis lutescens, or golden cane palm, is one of the best indoor plants. It is easy to care for, non-toxic and has an air-purifying and toxic-removing effect.
Native to the islands of Madagascar, Areca Palm has silver-green trunks and clusters of arching fronds with narrow and thin leaflets, which make it look similar to a bamboo tree. This plant can grow in height up to 30 feet outdoors and 8 feet indoors.
During late spring and early summer, Areca Palm blooms with small yellow flowers. There are both male and female flowers on the same inflorescence, which developed into yellow-orange small fruits. Areca Palm's fruits are not edible.
Areca palm loves bright indirect light and can tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight might burn its leaves, so when growing indoors, keep it a few feet away from a sunny window.
Water only when the first 2” of the top soil is dry. Areca Palm loves moist but not soggy soil, so drain well after each watering. Over-watering can cause root rot, while under-watering can make the leaves brown and crispy.
This plant needs well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. It is best to choose a houseplant mixed soil with peat moss.
This plant thrives in temperatures of 65°F-80°F. Do not let it in a spot where the temperature can drop below 50°F.
This plant requires rich soil, so it should be fertilized once per month during the growing season (spring/summer) with a diluted houseplant fertilizer. Alternatively you can use a slow-release fertilizer twice per year.
Areca Palm is considered non-toxic and safe for pets.
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USDA Zone 10b-11
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)