Kentia Palm

Howea forsterianaAlso known as: Paradise Palm, Thatch Palm, Sentry Palm

The Kentia Palm is the quintessential elegant indoor palm, prized since Victorian times for its graceful arching fronds and tolerance of low light. Native to Lord Howe Island, Australia, it's one of the most forgiving palms for indoor cultivation. It grows slowly to 6-10 feet (1.8-3 m) indoors.

Easy Care

Low to Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Low to Medium Light

Temperature Range
55-80°F (13-27°C)

Ideal Temp
68°F (20°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 7-10 days, when top 2 inches (5 cm) are dry
Summer	Every 7 days
Fall	Every 10-14 days
Winter	Every 14-21 days

More drought-tolerant than most palms. Allow soil to partially dry between waterings.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Weekly
Summer	2-3 times per week
Fall	Weekly
Winter	Weekly

Tolerates low humidity better than most palms but appreciates occasional misting.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Monthly with palm fertilizer
Summer	Monthly
Fall	Every 6-8 weeks
Winter	No fertilizing

Feed sparingly - too much fertilizer can damage roots.

Pruning

Frequency: Only remove dead or brown fronds

Best Season: Any time

Cut brown fronds close to trunk. Never cut green fronds - they won't regrow.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 3-4 years

Best Season: Spring

Slow grower - doesn't need frequent repotting. Use well-draining palm mix.

Propagation Methods

Seed only (very slow - takes months to years)
Cannot be divided or grown from cuttings

Common Problems

Brown leaf tips: Low humidity or fluoride in water
Yellow fronds: Overwatering or natural aging
Scale insects: Common pest - wipe leaves with neem oil
Slow growth: Normal - one of the slowest-growing palms

Pro Tips

Most tolerant of low light among indoor palms
Victorian-era favorite - adds classic elegance
Pet-safe for cats and dogs
Excellent for offices and low-light rooms

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