The parlour palm, Chamaedorea elegans, is a popular house plant grown for its attractive light green fronds. Native to Mexico and Guatemala, it's well-suited to average household temperatures and thrives in moderate humidity, meaning there's no need to grow it in a bathroom or mist its leaves. Chamaedorea elegans tolerates shade and is perfect for a shady corner of the house, but is equally happy in bright, indirect light, where it has more chance of flowering.
On NASA's list of 50 Indoor plants that clean the air, Chamaedorea elegans is fantastic for filtering and purifying stagnant air, and is a popular choice for growing in the work place. Tiny yellow flowers occasionally appear from spring to autumn, followed by small black fruit.
How to grow parlour palm
Grow Chamaedorea elegans in peat-free, house plant compost in spot with bright but indirect light, although a more shady location is tolerated. Water regularly during the growing season and feed monthly. In winter, keep the compost on the dry side. When your Chamaedorea elegans outgrows its pot, repot it in spring.
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Advice on buying parlour palm
Parlour palm requires bright but indirect light and moderate amounts of humidity. Ensure you have the right growing conditions before buying
Parlour palm is very slow growing – buy as big a plant as you can afford for the most immediate impact
Always check plants for signs of pests and diseases before buying or planting
