Kentia palm (Howea forsteriana)
Are you looking for a plant that really steals the show, or a green topper that immediately creates a tropical vibe in your home? Then we may have the perfect green candidate for you.
Tropical Kentia palm for the home
The Kentia palm, also known as the Howea Forsteriana, is a beautiful tropical houseplant which instantly adds a tropical feel to the atmosphere in your home. Originally from Lord Howe Island, located between Australia and New Zealand, this plant is an easy and attractive choice for your home.
Air purification of the Howea Forsteriana
The Kentia palm is an excellent air purifier. Like other houseplants, the Howea helps absorb pollutants from the air and convert them into oxygen. As a result, the plant contributes to healthier air quality in your home.
Is the Kentia palm poisonous?
The Howea Forsteriana is non-toxic and is in our category animal-friendly houseplants. Thus, the plant can be kept safely in a home with children and pets.
How big does a Kentia palm grow?
The Howea Forsteriana grows on average between 40-50cm per year, depending on care and size at purchase. If you choose a larger plant, such as a variant of 200 cm whether the Kentia palm of 250 cm, then it comes into its own faster in a more spacious room. A smaller version of 40 cm is also available, ideal for the table or nice in a cabinet.
Care of the Kentia Palm
The Kentia palm is an easy plant to care for, but there are some important points to consider. Make sure it is in the right location and give the plant plenty of water.
- Watering: the Kentia palm likes slightly moist soil and may be watered weekly. Check the potting soil before watering; if it is still damp, wait a few days. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and use a moisture meter to determine proper soil moisture.
- Location: The Kentia palm likes bright, indirect light. Too much sun can burn the leaves; too little light slows growth. Choose a spot with enough space and repot the plant regularly to keep up with growth.
- Pruning: old leaves turn brown and become brittle. Prune these as close to the mother plant as possible with sharp scissors or a sharp knife.
- Nutrition: from March to September give monthly houseplant food. From September to March, feeding the plant every two months is sufficient. This keeps the plant healthy and ensures lush growth.
On the Kentia Palm care page read more about taking care of this beautiful plant!
The Kentia palm versus other palms
The Howea Forsteriana is distinguished from other palms by its easy care and versatility. It handles less light well, making it suitable for areas of the home that do not receive much direct sunlight. Compared to the Areca palm whether the Stick palm, the Kentia needs less water and can withstand slightly drier air.
The perfect Howea Forsteriana for you!
At Green bubble we have a large and extensive assortment of Kentia palms. From small table plants to mega eye-catchers to fill your space.
Looking for an XL Kentia palm? Our Personal Plantshopper helps you choose your new plant. Receive photos via WhatsApp within seconds and choose your favorite live from our greenhouse! We will deliver it to your doorstep within a few business days.
Repotting and pruning the Kentia palm
Repot the Howea Forsteriana every few years or when the roots begin to grow out of the pot. Spring is the ideal time for repotting in a new pot, giving the plant time to recover. Pruning is not necessary, but occasionally you can cut away dead or damaged leaves.
Diseases and pests in the Howea Forsteriana
Although not often affected by disease, the Kentia palm can be susceptible to aphids and mealybugs. You can easily remove these aphids by rinsing the leaves or using insecticides. Detailed information on how to deal with pests on your houseplant is available in our blogs.
Kentia palms shopping at Green Bubble
At Green Bubble, the webshop for high quality plants, simply order your Kentia Palm - large or small - and have it delivered fresh from the grower to your front door. Choose convenience and give your living space a natural boost with a beautiful Kentia Palm!