Kentia palm care
The Kentia palm, or Howea forsteriana, is an elegant houseplant that brings an instant tropical vibe to your home with its graceful, dark green fronds. While it’s easy to care for, proper attention will keep it thriving and looking lush for years to come.
Kentia palm care
Care tips for Kentia palms in brief
| Guarantee | Fresh from the grower | |
| Delivery type | Houseplant delivered in growing pot | |
| Latin name | Howea Forsteriana | |
| Location | Normal daylight/partial shade | |
| Water requirements | Approximately once or twice a week | |
| Toxic | Non-toxic | |
| Air purifying | Yes | |
| Maintenance | Low |
“The Howea forsteriana thrives best in an environment with normal daylight or light shade. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so avoid placing it in a spot with bright sunlight. ”
Frequently asked questions about the Kentia palm
Quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about water, light, nutrition and care.
How often should I water my Kentia palm?
The Howea forsteriana has moderate water requirements. In general, you can water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the temperature and humidity in your home. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Can Howea forsteriana be placed in direct sunlight?
The Kentia palm does not like direct sunlight. This can cause the leaves to burn. Place the plant in a spot with normal daylight or light shade, preferably near a window where the sun is not too bright.
How often should I repot my Kentia palm?
It is advisable to repot Howea forsteriana once every two years. This helps to give the roots enough space and ensures that the plant remains healthy. Choose a decorative pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure well-drained soil. Read our blog about repotting your houseplant for the best tips and tricks.
Why does my Howea forsteriana have yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves can have various causes, such as overwatering, insufficient light, or a lack of nutrients. Check whether the plant is getting too much water and ensure it has sufficient light, but no direct sunlight. It may also help to feed the plant a little more often during the growing season.
Can the Kentia palm be placed in a bedroom?
The Howea is an excellent houseplant for the bedroom. The plant purifies the air, contributing to healthier air quality in the room. Make sure the room has sufficient light, but avoid direct sunlight.
How do I prune Howea forsteriana?
The Kentia palm requires little pruning. You can carefully cut off dead or damaged leaves at the base of the plant to make it look neater. Avoid pruning healthy leaves, as these are essential for photosynthesis.
What is the ideal temperature for the Kentia palm?
The Howea forsteriana likes a warm climate. The ideal temperature is between 18 and 24°C. Avoid sudden temperature changes and do not place the plant near cold draughts or heat sources such as radiators.
Does Howea forsteriana need high humidity?
The Kentia palm thrives in average humidity, but prefers slightly higher humidity. Especially in winter, when the air is often drier due to heating, it can help to spray the plant with water occasionally or use a humidifier.
Is the Kentia palm toxic to pets?
The Howea forsteriana is not toxic to pets. This makes the plant a safe choice for families with pets!
How tall can a Howea palm grow?
Under ideal conditions, the Kentia palm can reach a height of approximately 2 to 3 metres indoors. In practice, however, the plant often remains slightly more compact. Keep in mind that the leaves can spread out quite widely, meaning that the plant needs more space than you might think at first glance.
Older, lower leaves will droop a little more over time. You can easily prune these away with sharp scissors to keep the palm in good shape.
Older, lower leaves will droop a little more over time. You can easily prune these away with sharp scissors to keep the palm in good shape.
