Plant Library
Parlor Palm Care Guide
Chamaedorea elegans
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
A soft, compact palm that tolerates low light, which makes it the best pet-safe choice for darker rooms.
Plant profile
- Light
- Low to medium indirect light
- Water
- When the top inch is dry
- Humidity
- Average
- Pets
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Size
- 2-4 ft
- Growth
- Slow
Light
Low to medium indirect light. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
When the top inch is dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: average. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Keep it out of direct sun, which scorches the fronds.
Common problems
- Brown tips: Dry air or salts.
- Yellow fronds: Overwatering.
- Spider mites: Dry air; rinse fronds.
Pets
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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