Kentia Palm – Howeia forsteriana
Regarded by many as one of the most attractive of all palm trees the Kentia Palm. Kentia Palms or ‘ howea forsteriana’ is used both as an indoor plant and in the garden.
A naturally elegent palm with an upright habit Kentia Palms are a native to Lord Howe Island however has been widely grown in Europe for nearly 200 years.
In suitable outdoor situations Kentia Palms may reach up to 20m however this is usually in an environmnet where it grows as an understory tree or in dense colonies.
As an indoor plant Kentia Palms are much more restrained and will reach from 4- 10m depending on conditions and pot size.
Indoors it is grown for the lush green foliage that brings a tropical look.
In the garden it is also naturally lower growing especially in a more open position where it does not need to reach for the light.
An elegant palm with dark, lustrous arching fronds coming from a single trunk. Its attractive shape makes it most desirable for interior decore.
Care
Kentia palms prefer indirect light and are an excellent option for low light situations. They do require a humus rich soil and good drainage.
Although they are hardy once established, frosts can damage the tender new foliage. Direct hot sun can also scorch foliage and detract from the appearance.
Grown indoors you will need to fertilize once or twice a year. A general purpose low phospahte type will be sufficient. In containers you will need to renew the potting mix every 2 – 3 years. Simply lift the plant from the pot, remove some of the old potting mix (minimum root disturbance) and repot using new potting mix. Water in well after repotting.
When grown indoors try to rotate to an outdoor position every 6 weeks for a week or so.
Problems
Although these are a relatively problem free plant a few problems can arise.
- Brown foliage – Usually caused by sun scorch. However also by very low humidity if grown indoors and by lack of water.
- Yellow leaf tips – Usually caused by overwatering.
- Brown leaf tips – Sometimes caused by chlorine in tap water, let water sit in a bucket overnight to allow chlorine to burn off before watering.
Kentia Palm Nurseries – Kentia Palms for Sale
In Brisbane and The Gold Coast Try
300 Oxley Drive Coombabah QLD 4216
Located on the north end of the Gold Coast at Runaway Bay. The 6 acre site is home to Queensland's biggest & best garden centre. Selling in volume direct to the public. Focus on top quality both in our plant & pot ranges.
www.rossevansgardencentre.com.au
email: chinatrading@bigpond.com
Advanced trees and palms from all over Australia delivered anywhere in Australia and Overseas. Salvaged Zamia Palms, Grass Trees, Queensland Bottle Trees & Livistona Palms
www.chinatrading.com.au