Chrysalidocarpus lutescens
Origin
Madagascar
Family
Araceae
Description
The Areca Palm gets its nickname, the Butterfly Palm, because its long feathery fronds (leaves) arch upwards off of multiple reed like stems.
Although the areca palm can grow as high as 30 feet outdoors, in interior locations, it tends to average only 6 to 7 feet. Long evergreen leaf stems shoot up from golden stalks and arch outward and down. The small white flowers and dark purple oblong fruits can appear year-round. These palms typically grow 6 to 7 inches per year.
Areca Palm is effective in removing benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene from the air.
Environment
The areca needs filtered light, preferably near a southeast or west-facing window. Use a moist, well-drained soil (preferably acidic soil), and water the plants as soon as the soil feels dry a little below the surface. Areca palms do not respond well to overwatering. Never allow an Areca to sit in water as this causes root rot. The fronds of an Areca wilt when they need water but quickly perk up once the soil is drenched.
Mist the leaves several times a week with a spray bottle. Mist the plant more frequently in the summer growing season. the more water you can supply the blooms, the healthier it will be.
Fertilize areca palm plants with a time-release fertilizer in spring. This gives the plant most of the nutrients it needs for the entire season. The fronds benefit from a micronutrient spray in summer. Leaf color is one of the best guide ,Rich green indicates fertilizer levels are adequate & slight overall yellowish color may mean the to apply nutrients
Landscape
This palm tree , with its long, graceful feather-shaped fronds, will add a tropical feel to your home and is especially well suited for screened patios and atriums.
