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Areca Palm

Dypsis lutescens

Family: ArecaceaeGenus: DypsisNative: Madagascar

The areca or butterfly palm is a graceful, feathery indoor palm that brings a soft tropical feel and is completely pet-safe.

Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) plant — feathery, arching fronds
How to spot Areca Palm: feathery, arching fronds.

How to identify Areca Palm

Look for these tell-tale features when identifying Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens).

  • Feathery, arching fronds
  • Multiple slender yellow-green cane stems
  • Clumping, vase-shaped habit

Areca Palm care guide

Everything Areca Palm needs to thrive, at a glance.

Light

Bright, indirect light.

Water

Keep lightly moist; let the top few cm dry.

Soil

Well-draining, peaty mix.

Temperature

18–27°C (65–81°F).

Humidity

Prefers higher humidity.

Fertilizer

Feed monthly in spring and summer.

Is Areca Palm toxic to pets?

Cats & dogs: SafeHumans: Safe

Non-toxic and safe around pets and children.

Common Areca Palm problems and fixes

  • Brown tips from dry air or salt build-up
  • Yellow fronds from overwatering
  • Spider mites in dry conditions

How to propagate Areca Palm

Divide clumps; rarely grown from seed indoors.

Fun facts

  • One of the best palms for humidifying a room.
  • Also called the golden cane palm.

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Areca Palm FAQ

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