The elegant, arching feather palm beloved since Victorian parlours, tolerant of low light and neglect. Pet-safe and graceful, the classic indoor palm.
At a glance
- Plant type: Palm or cycad
- Mature size: 3 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Kentia Palm
Botanically, Howea forsteriana is a slow-growing palm or cycad in the Arecaceae family. It reaches around 3 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Kentia Palm
Kentia Palm suits subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Kentia Palm provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Kentia Palm is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Kentia Palm in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Kentia Palm in the garden
Kentia Palm earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Kentia Palm with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Kentia Palm
Plant Sale lists Kentia Palm as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.