Parlor palm (Chamaedorea stricta)
Care, watering, light and tips for Parlor palm on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Arecaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 5 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 15–40 °C
About Parlor palm
Chamaedorea stricta, commonly known as Kum Palm, is a small to medium-sized palm native to the rainforests of Central America. It is characterized by its solitary, slender trunk, which can reach up to 3-4 meters tall, and its deep green, pinnate leaves, giving it an elegant and tropical appearance. It is ideal for bright indoor spaces, shaded patios, or as part of a low-maintenance tropical garden.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It thrives in bright indirect light or partial shade, avoiding direct sun exposure which can scorch its leaves. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, reducing frequency in winter; ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Use an organic-rich, well-draining substrate, such as a palm mix. A common mistake is insufficient ambient humidity, which can lead to dry leaf tips; mist regularly if the environment is dry.
How to save a dying Parlor palm
- Warning signs
- Brown and dry leaf tips, widespread yellowing, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Increase humidity, water only when soil is dry, check for waterlogging.
- What kills it
- Overwatering rotting roots or dry air causing dehydration.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and some green leaves remain.