Parlor palm
Parlor palm: compact Chamaedorea for indoors
The parlor palm, botanically known as Chamaedorea elegans and sometimes sold as Mexican dwarf palm, is a compact indoor palm with fine green fronds. It suits bright to partly shaded rooms and tolerates lower light better than many other palms. Keep the potting mix lightly moist, but avoid letting the roots stand in water.
The parlor palm is generally considered pet-friendly, making it a good choice for homes with cats or dogs.
Want to know more about watering, position and brown leaf tips? Read our parlor palm care guide.
Frequently asked questions — Parlor palm
Which indoor spots are suitable for a parlor palm?
Choose a bright spot with indirect light. Parlor palms tolerate lower light better than many other indoor palms, but they will grow more slowly there. Avoid harsh direct sun, cold drafts and placement too close to radiators. A bright corner, office, shelf or bathroom with a window can work well.
Which size of parlor palm should I choose?
Compact parlor palms suit desks, shelves and smaller rooms. Fuller multi-stem plants create a softer, greener look in corners or living spaces. Taller plants work well as floor plants, as long as the pot is stable and the fronds have enough space.
How do I care for a parlor palm?
Keep the potting mix lightly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Let the top layer dry slightly before watering again. Use a well-draining indoor potting mix, keep the plant in bright indirect light or partial shade, and wipe dust from the fronds occasionally. Feed lightly in spring and summer.
Is a parlor palm pet-friendly?
The parlor palm is generally considered pet-friendly and is usually listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Still, it is best to prevent pets from chewing the fronds regularly, both for the plant and for your pet.