With around 50 species inthe genus Areca palms are a clumping palm that grow mainly in tropical zones and some species are used as indoor plants
Areca Palms – Varieties
Areca catechu is commonly called the ‘Betel Nut’ Palm. Grown as a garden plant as well as for the nuts in China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka as well as Papua New Guinea. Health concerns about using the tree in other ways besides a garden plant have been raised.
Areca vestiaria (Red Crownshaft palm)
One of the more interesting palm trees is Areca vestiaria, probably best described as spectacular, if you choose the right variety. Originally from Indonesia, this is a palm tree that requires warmth and humidity to perform at its best.
A palm tree for part shade, Areca vestiaria is commonly called the ‘Red Crown shaft palm’. Very attractive growth habit with fronds that are held semi erect in a manner that shows off the red of the crown shaft or neck.
- Height – To 4m
- Spread – To 2m with a fairly open habit.
- Soil – Humus rich moist.
- Position – Dappled shade.
- Growth rate – slow.
- Suited as an indoor plant – Yes.
Areca vestiaria Varieties
This is a clumping palm tree, although two varieties are available.
The Red Form has a good crown shaft and for added interest the new growth foliage is a good red. It tends to be a clumping variety and is a brilliant landscaping plant.
The second form has a red to orange crown shaft, however new foliage is green. This form does have its advantages in that it is better suited to cooler climates. It will form a clump, however not as readily as the red form.
Areca triandra (Wild Areca Palm)
A clumping palm with green foliage, Areca triandra is also known as the ‘Betel Nut Palm’. Fairly slow growing and requiring a tropical to sub tropical climate it is by nature an understory palm however it will grow well in shade to part sun.
Originally from South East Asia through to India this is a palm that requires a warm climate, or protected position. Areas that receive frost or cold winds are not suitable.
Landscaping Uses.
Attractive stems and the ability to grow in shade make this a useful indoor plant. Used for underplanting in tropical look gardens, it can be used for background plantings around swimming pools and in resorts. Reaching around 5 -7 m in height over time it is suited to growing indoors in commercial buildings.
Leaves are pinnate and will reach around 2.5m in length, are attractive, yellow to green flowers are followed by red berries in large clusters.
Growth rate is slow, reaching only 4 – 5 metres in height after 10 – 15 years.
Care
- Frost free environment.
- Best grown in dappled shade or filtered light, also suited to sunny positions as a mature plant.
- Best protected from strong winds.
- Good moisture through the year and a well drained soil.