Chamaedorea elegans

Common names

Parlour Palm.

Curiosities

Origin

Mexico, Belize, Guatemala.

Habitat

Rainforest often on limestone soils at medium altitude. Conservation status in habitat is of special concern, although it is very popular in cultivation as outdoor plant.

Morphology

A single trunk, up to 3 m tall and 3 cm in diameter, slender, with annular rings close together. Usually sold as a group; they put several seeds in a pot so that it can promptly reach market. Pinnate leaves, the first young leaves having the same appearance of adult ones. Fruits rounded and black to orange red. The first inflorescence appears at early age.

Climate

Tropical to temperate. This plant has tolerated temperatures down to –4ºC (24.8ºF, USDA Zone 9a).

Germination

Very easy with fresh seeds.

Growing

A highly resistant plant (even to frosts and drought) both inside and outside. Best as indoor plant since prefers poor light. Purifies the air. Outside can adapt to temperate climates, in moist and shady conditions. Frosts and direct sun may damage the leaves.