Check him about once a week and water him if the top two inches of soil feel dry.
He'll be happiest in any room that gets a lot of light. Harsh sun is a bit much for him, so ideally not right next to a window.
He appreciates moist air to keep his fronds fresh. That’s easily done by misting him a couple of times a week.
Botanical name
Howea forsteriana
Nickname
Kentia palm; Thatch palm; Paradise palm plant
Plant type
Palm, indoor
Air purifying?
Yes
Plant height (including pot)
90-100cm; 120-130cm; 160-170cm; 180-190cm
Pet/baby safe?
Yes
Nursery pot size
19cm; 21cm; 24cm; 27cm
The Kentia palm originated on Lord Howe Island (population: 382), a tiny piece of land off the east coast of Australia. The island gives the palm its botanical name, Howea forsteriana. It’s a slow grower that can take decades to reach its maximum height of 10 metres.
In the 1870s, the Kentia palm came to the UK. The Victorians loved an exotic status symbol and grew it as a houseplant. It coped bravely with the poor light and air in Victorian homes. Queen Victoria herself was a big fan, insisting palms were placed around her coffin when she died.
This is still an incredibly popular houseplant, but now we can give it a much better life. It has simple needs. It likes lots of bright light, but not harsh direct sun. Regular misting will keep its leaves fresh and green. It will also appreciate a feed with liquid fertiliser once per month in spring and summer. It’s a royal favourite. It deserves respect.
Did you know?
Kentia palms were used for decoration on The Titanic. In first class, naturally.
From £14.00
From £15.00
From £10.00
From £10.00
From £10.00
£75.00
Fits pots 28-32cm
From £10.00
From £9.00
From £35.00
From £15.00
From £25.00
From £12.00
From £16.00
From £38.00
