

The Kentia palm is highly prized for its elegant fronds
and slender trunk. Kentia palms have a canopy of
about three dozen gracefully drooping leaves which
produce an airy and poised look.
The leaves are pinnate (feather-like) and grow up to
12 ft long with thornless 4-5 ft petioles (leaf stems).
The leaflets are like fingers, 2.5 ft long and 2 in wide;
they bend downward in a graceful fashion.
Kentia palm leaflets are dark green on top and lighter
green on the bottom. The mature spread ranges from
10-20 ft (3-6 m) across, and the height may range from
15-30 ft, and can reach 60 ft . The trunk is swollen at
the base and has slightly raised annular trunk rings.
The beautiful palm produces an inflorescence about 3.5
ft long which consists of white flowers on 3-7 spikes
which are fused at their bases. Male and female
flowers are produced in the same inflorescence.
Mature fruits are dull red and egg shaped, about 1.5 in
long.
Known to be one of the most common palms for indoor
use. Rightly so, since this palm is incredibly tolerant of
neglect, and capable of withstanding very low light
situations, as well as air-conditioning!
FACTS
Soil - rich, well drained soil.
Sun - full coastal sun, partial
sun inland
Water - ample water, moist soil.
Cold - can take down to 24°.
Natural Habitat -
Lord Howe Island (off eastern
coast of Australia)