Parlor Palm Vs Areca Palm: Which is the best fit for your space?Frequently Asked Questions

As indoor plants continue to gain popularity, it can be challenging to decide which one to choose. Parlor palm and Areca palm are two of the most popular choices, but how do you know which one is right for your space? In this article, we will compare Parlor palm vs Areca palm in various aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Parlor palm and Areca palm have a lot in common, yet they differ in several ways. The Parlor palm, also known as Chamaedorea elegans, is a small palm tree that grows up to 6 feet tall. It's native to Central America and Mexico and is known for its hardiness and ability to adapt to low-light conditions. Areca palm, on the other hand, is also referred to as Dypsis lutescens or golden cane palm. It's a tropical plant native to Madagascar and can grow up to 20 feet tall in the wild.

In terms of their appearance, both plants feature a cluster of fronds at the top of slender stems. However, there are differences in their leaves' texture and color. Parlor palm has feathery, light green leaves, while Areca palm has long, arching, and yellow-green leaves.

Now let's dive into the details and compare Parlor palm vs Areca palm.

1. Size

When it comes to size, Areca palm is much larger than Parlor palm. Areca palm can grow up to 20 feet tall in the wild, while Parlor palm only grows up to 6 feet tall. Therefore, if you're looking for a larger plant, Areca palm is the way to go. However, if you have limited space or prefer smaller plants, Parlor palm is the ideal choice.

2. Light Requirements

Both Parlor palm and Areca palm are shade-tolerant plants, making them perfect for indoor spaces with low-light conditions. However, they have different light requirements. Parlor palm prefers bright but indirect light and can't tolerate direct sunlight, while Areca palm needs bright, indirect light to thrive. Therefore, if you have a room with a lot of natural light, Areca palm is an excellent choice.

3. Watering

When it comes to watering, both plants require regular watering, but they differ in their tolerance to drought. Parlor palm can tolerate periods of dryness better than Areca palm, which requires consistent moisture to thrive. Therefore, if you're not able to water your plant regularly, Parlor palm is a better option.

4. Temperature

Parlor palm is a versatile plant that can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 85°F (30°C). Areca palm, on the other hand, prefers warmer temperatures between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (23°C). Therefore, if you live in a colder climate, Parlor palm is the better option.

5. Humidity

Areca palm is a tropical plant that thrives in moist air and requires a minimum humidity level of 50%. It's important to note that low humidity levels can cause browning of the tips of its leaves. On the other hand, Parlor palm can tolerate lower humidity levels and doesn't require much humidity to thrive.

6. Maintenance

Both Parlor palm and Areca palm are relatively low-maintenance plants. However, Areca palm requires more maintenance due to its larger size and additional care requirements such as pruning. Parlor palm, on the other hand, is easier to maintain and doesn't require pruning unless you want to shape it.

7. Toxicity

Areca palm is safe for pets, while Parlor palm is mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Therefore, if you have pets, it's better to choose Areca palm.

8. Air Purifying Qualities

Both Parlor palm and Areca palm are excellent air purifiers and can improve indoor air quality by removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air. However, Areca palm is more effective in this regard due to its larger size.

9. Price

The price of both plants depends on their size and availability. Generally, Parlor palm is less expensive than Areca palm due to its smaller size.

10. Aesthetics

In terms of aesthetics, both plants add a tropical vibe to indoor spaces. However, they differ in their appearance. Areca palm has long, arching fronds that create an elegant look, while Parlor palm has feathery leaves that give a softer look. Therefore, the choice between the two depends on your personal preference.

11. Growth Rate

Areca palm is known for its fast growth rate and can grow up to 6-10 feet in just a few years. On the other hand, Parlor palm has a much slower growth rate and takes years to reach its maximum height.

12. Potting Requirements

Both plants require well-draining soil that's rich in nutrients. However, Areca palm requires a larger pot than Parlor palm due to its larger size.

13. Propagation

Parlor palm can be propagated through division or seeds, while Areca palm can only be propagated through seeds.

14. Pests and Diseases

Both plants are susceptible to pests and diseases such as spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot. However, Parlor palm is more resistant to pests and diseases than Areca palm.

15. Versatility

Parlor palm's adaptability to low-light conditions and its ability to tolerate periods of dryness make it a versatile plant that can be grown in various indoor spaces. Areca palm, on the other hand, requires specific conditions to thrive and may not be suitable for all indoor spaces.

In conclusion, both Parlor palm and Areca palm are excellent choices for indoor plants. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference, space availability, and care requirements. If you're looking for a larger plant that requires consistent moisture, Areca palm is the ideal choice. However, if you have limited space or prefer a low-maintenance plant, Parlor palm is a better option.

Q1. Can Parlor palm and Areca palm be planted together?

A. Yes, they can be planted together as long as their growing requirements are met.

Q2. What is the ideal temperature range for Parlor palm?

A. Parlor palm thrives in temperatures between 50°F (10°C) and 85°F (30°C).

Q3. How often should I water my Areca palm?

A. Areca palm requires regular watering, and the soil should be kept consistently moist.

Q4. Can Areca palm grow outdoors?

A. Areca palm can grow outdoors in tropical and subtropical climates with warm temperatures.

Q5. Can Parlor palm survive in low light?

A. Yes, Parlor palm is an excellent choice for low-light areas as it can tolerate shade.

Q6. What are the common pests that affect Parlor palm?

A. Spider mites and mealybugs are the common pests that affect Parlor palm.

Q7. Can Areca palm tolerate direct sunlight?

A. Areca palm can't tolerate direct sunlight and requires bright but indirect light.

Q8. How often should I fertilize my Parlor palm?

A. Parlor palm requires fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season.

Q9. Can Areca palm grow in dry conditions?

A. No, Areca palm requires consistent moisture to thrive.

Q10. What are the benefits of having Parlor palm as an indoor plant?

A. Parlor palm is an excellent air purifier and can remove harmful pollutants from indoor air.