Parlor palm care guide
Chamaedorea elegans
Also known as: Parlor palm, Neanthe bella
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Parlor palm
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- Water thoroughly a day or two after the topsoil dries, as a guide; too dry browns the tips and too wet harms the roots.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Drying slows, so generally wait two to three days after the soil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water sparingly about four to five days after the soil dries, and keep misting in a heated room.
Light and placement for Parlor palm
Bright shade is about right; it is shade-tolerant enough to hold up even under ordinary room lighting, and direct sun yellows and scorches the fronds.
Overwintering Parlor palm
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
It takes down to about 5°C, though staying above 10°C keeps the fronds in better shape; water lightly indoors in a bright spot and avoid direct heater airflow.
Fertilizing and repotting Parlor palm
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month from May to September; a small plant needs little, and none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Parlor palm
- Dry air and spider mites brown the frond tips.
- Overwatering rots the roots and yellows the fronds.
- Direct sun yellows and scorches the fronds.
Tips for growing Parlor palm
- Cut off the small yellow flower sprays early so they do not tire the plant.
- It is usually sold as several seedlings potted together; there is no need to separate them.
- An occasional shower keeps spider mites down.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
