Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana): Plant Care and Growing Guide – House Plants Expert

The Kentia palm plant (Howea forsteriana) is a beautiful and popular houseplant known for its graceful fronds and air-purifying properties. It is native to Lord Howe Island, Australia, where it grows in the lush rainforests. Kentia palms are relatively slow-growing, but they can eventually reach heights of up to 10 feet indoors.

Kentia palms are known for their tolerance for low light conditions, making them a good choice for homes with limited natural light. They are also relatively drought-tolerant, but they should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. Kentia palms prefer well-draining potting soil and should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Kentia palms are relatively pest- and disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale. If you notice any pests on your Kentia palm, isolate it from other plants and treat it with an insecticidal soap or spray.

Kentia palms are a beautiful and versatile addition to any home. They can be used to add a touch of elegance to a living room, hallway, or office. They are also a popular choice for weddings and other special events.

Here are some of the benefits of having a Kentia palm plant in your home:

• Air purification: Kentia palms are known for their ability to purify the air by removing toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene.
• Low maintenance: Kentia palms are relatively low-maintenance plants that are easy to care for.
• Adaptability: Kentia palms can tolerate a variety of growing conditions, including low light and low humidity.
• Beauty: Kentia palms are beautiful plants with graceful fronds that can add a touch of elegance to any home.

Description

Where they are cultivated: 

The K.palm is native to Lord Howe Island (Australia) and cultivated there. The seeds are also sent to and cultivated in other countries including, the Hawaiian Islands. It is said to be a vulnerable species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and can be found on their red list for it’s vulnerability.

How it looks and displays: 

From the feather-type palms group, this one has wide fronds (leaves) which do not arch as much as the Belmoreana. These fronds look lush and can grow up to a foot long, making them in need of enough space where they are displayed. They look the part sitting within a conservatory, office, or hallway and add an exotic look to any room.

Easy to grow: 

You will see with the care instructions below that these are as easy as plants can get for a grower to care for and maintain. They are forgiving plants that can take some neglect, although that’s not recommended. They are also slow growers that will not need re-potting each year, like many others.

Facts

Kentia Palm Care

Elyssa Goins

Elyssa Goins is an experienced house plant hobbyist who maintains over a hundred plants. She is a gardener, beekeeper, and a proud mother of four.  She is a member of the American Horticultural Society, has a published study in the National Social Science Association, and loves to talk about her love of plants.  For the past twenty years, she’s been all about growing and caring for various fruits, veggies, herbs, livestock, kids, and houseplants. Managing a big garden to feed four growing kids and raising dairy goats has taught her so much about being an excellent plant parent and now is her time to share with you.