Care of the indoor plant Howea forsteriana or Kentia palm |
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The genus Howea, family Palmaceae, includes only 2 species of palm trees: Howea forsteriana and Howea belmoreana. Common names: Kentia palm, Forster sentry palm, Thatch palm. This species is native to Lord Howe Island, Australia. They are very elegant palm trees that reach 20 meters (65.6 feet) in height in their natural habitat; in pot and indoors they reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height. They have very divided, dark green fronds (leaves). They don't usually bloom indoors. They are used as indoor or greenhouse plants. In summer they can be located on terraces and patios. Howea forsteriana needs a light exposure but no direct sun. The temperature should not be less than 13 ºC (55.4 ºF). It needs a medium-high humidity. The soil can be a mixture of heather soil, peat, and coarse sand. Transplantation or planting is done in early spring. Water abundantly throughout the year except in winter (decrease watering slightly). It is important to use lime-free water so that the tips of the leaves do not turn brown. Fertilize with liquid fertilizer once a month in spring and summer. Excessive sun and drought can provoke attacks by mites, thrips and mealybugs. They propagate from seeds sown in early spring; they take months to germinate. It's advisable to acquire new specimens in garden centers, nurseries and plant stores. |
Images of the indoor plant Howea forsteriana or Kentia palm |
 Howea forsteriana  Howea forsteriana  Howea forsteriana |