Parlor Palm

Chamaedorea elegans Mart.

cam-eh-DOOR-ee-ah  EL-eh-ganz

Arecaceae

Explanation of name: For Chamaedorea see C. cataractarum. Elegans is self-explanatory.

Invalid name applied to this species: Neanthe bella

Natural range: Mesoamerica (ELL). Moist, dense, rainforest and cloudforest (JON, RI2)

Recognition: Short (3’-12’), single-trunked, pinnate-leaved, shade-loving palm. The stems resemble bamboo, and the leaf sheaths often have white margins (JON). The fruits (on separate female plants) are black on an orange stalk.

Landscape uses: An historical favorite for indoor use. JON suggests cool, moist, protected conditions. The fruits are irritating. Forms adventitious roots and can be air-layered. ELL gives up to 12 months for germination with bottom heat.