Genus Information
Howea is a genus of two species of palm tree which are both endemic to Lord Howe Island, Australia. Howea forsteriana is the more common species grown as a house plant. Known as the Kentia Palm they are tolerant of neglect and can withstand low-light, humidity, and even short periods of cool temperatures.
Care Requirements – Easy
Light requirements
Howea forsteriana prefers bright indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.
Watering requirements
The Kentia Palm only needs watering once the surface of the soil begins to dry out.
Humidity requirements
Prefers higher levels of humidity. If placed in an area with slightly drier air be sure to mist the fronds regularly to make them stay green and healthy.
Growth
Can reach lengths of up to 3 metres but is a very slow grower. It will also be restricted by the size of pot it is in.
Origin
Originally native to Lord Howe Island, Australia.
Flowering
Howea forsteriana does not produce flowers when grown indoors.
Foliage
The Kentia palm has attractive green fronds coming off of multiple stems. The multiple stems are actually multiple individual trees that are planted in groupings to create a thicker screen of foliage.