Parlor Palm Vs Areca Palm: Which One is the Best for You?

Oleh Jaime Schowalter Juni 16, 2023 Posting Komentar

If you are looking for a perfect houseplant, then palms are definitely worth considering. They not only add a touch of greenery to your home but also purify the air. And when it comes to indoor palms, two popular options are Parlor Palm and Areca Palm. But which one should you choose? In this blog post, we will compare Parlor Palm vs Areca Palm in detail to help you make an informed decision.

Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) and Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens) are both tropical plants that are commonly used as indoor ornamental plants. Parlor palms are native to Mexico and Guatemala, while Areca palms are native to Madagascar. Both these palms have their own unique features and benefits. It's important to understand these differences before you decide which one to buy.

Parlor Palm vs Areca Palm: A Detailed Comparison

1. Appearance

Parlor palms have a bushy appearance with dark green leaves that grow up to 2-3 feet tall. They are slow-growing and can take years to reach their full height. On the other hand, Areca palms have long, slender stems with feathery fronds that can grow up to 6-7 feet tall. They have a more slender and elegant look compared to Parlor palms.

2. Light Requirements

Both Parlor Palm and Areca Palm prefer bright, indirect light. However, Parlor palms can tolerate low-light conditions better than Areca palms. They can thrive in north-facing windows or rooms with artificial lighting. Areca palms, on the other hand, need brighter light to grow well. They require east or west-facing windows and may not do well in low-light conditions.

3. Watering Needs

Parlor palms prefer slightly moist soil and should be watered once a week, while Areca palms like to dry out between watering. They should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot in both these plants.

4. Humidity Requirements

Both Parlor Palm and Areca Palm thrive in humid environments. They require around 50% humidity to grow well. You can increase humidity levels by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier.

5. Temperature Requirements

Both these palms prefer warm temperatures between 65°F-80°F (18°C-27°C). They cannot tolerate cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.

6. Toxicity

Parlor Palm and Areca Palm are non-toxic to pets and humans. So, you don't have to worry about any harmful effects if your pet chews on their leaves.

7. Air Purifying Abilities

Both Parlor Palm and Areca Palm are excellent air purifiers. They remove pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air, making them great plants for improving indoor air quality.

8. Maintenance

Parlor palms are low-maintenance plants that require minimal care. They don't need pruning or fertilizing often. On the other hand, Areca palms require more maintenance. They need regular pruning to remove old fronds and fertilization every 2-3 months during the growing season.

9. Price

The price of Parlor Palm and Areca Palm depends on their size and location. However, in general, Parlor palms are less expensive than Areca palms because they are smaller and slower-growing.

10. Pests and Diseases

Both these palms are susceptible to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. They can also suffer from diseases like root rot, leaf spot, and yellowing leaves. However, proper care can prevent these problems.

11. Propagation

Parlor palms can be propagated through seed or division of the plant. Areca palms are usually propagated through seeds, but they can also be divided if the plant is large enough.

12. Suitability for Indoors

Both Parlor Palm and Areca Palm are great indoor plants. However, Parlor palms are better suited for smaller spaces because of their bushy appearance and slow growth. Areca palms, on the other hand, need more space to grow due to their height.

13. Decorative Value

Both palms have excellent decorative value, but in different ways. Parlor palms are great for adding a touch of greenery to shelves, tables, and small corners. Areca palms, on the other hand, are perfect for filling up empty corners or adding height to your decor.

14. Pet-Friendly

As mentioned earlier, both Parlor Palm and Areca Palm are non-toxic to pets. However, it's important to place them out of reach of curious pets, especially if you have puppies or kittens.

15. Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between Parlor Palm and Areca Palm depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you want a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate low-light conditions, then Parlor palm is a good choice. On the other hand, if you want a tall, elegant plant that can add height to your decor, then Areca palm is a better option. Consider factors like space, light, humidity, and maintenance before making a decision.

In conclusion, Parlor Palm and Areca Palm are both great indoor palms that have their own unique features and benefits. While Parlor palms are better suited for smaller spaces and low-light conditions, Areca palms require more space and bright light to grow well. Consider your personal needs and preferences before choosing one over the other.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How often should I water Parlor Palm and Areca Palm?

Ans: Parlor palms should be watered once a week, while Areca palms should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.

Q2. Do Parlor Palm and Areca Palm need fertilizer?

Ans: Parlor palms don't need fertilizing often, while Areca palms need fertilization every 2-3 months during the growing season.

Q3. Can Parlor Palm and Areca Palm tolerate low-light conditions?

Ans: Parlor palms can tolerate low-light conditions better than Areca palms.

Q4. Can Parlor Palm and Areca Palm purify the air?

Ans: Yes, both these palms are excellent air purifiers that can remove pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air.

Q5. Are Parlor Palm and Areca Palm pet-friendly?

Ans: Yes, both these palms are non-toxic to pets.

Q6. How do I increase humidity levels around Parlor Palm and Areca Palm?

Ans: You can increase humidity levels by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier.

Q7. Can Parlor Palm and Areca Palm suffer from pests and diseases?

Ans: Yes, both these palms are susceptible to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, and diseases like root rot, leaf spot, and yellowing leaves.