There are not many palms which will live happily ever after indoors, but the Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa) can. Indoors, Lady Palms are often found as potted plants, making an elegant statement in hotel lobbies, restaurants and office atria, due to their tolerance to low light conditions.Planting Site
Outdoors, Lady Palms grow in clumps, and do best in areas of the landscape that receive partial to full shade. Lady Palms are slow-growing, getting to 14 ft. x 15 ft. at maturity, and will do best planted in a well-drained location. Because their preference is for full- to partial- shade, Lady Palms experience severe sun-scorch if exposed to full sun.
Nutrient requirements
Lady Palms in the landscape do not typically experience significant nutrient deficiencies, but container-grown plants can experience deficiencies due to nutrient leaching from over-irrigation. If deficiencies occur, as indicated by yellowing fronds or yellow/brown spots on fronds, using a fertilizer specially formulated for palms is recommended. To learn more about palm nutrient requirements, click on this link: fertilizing palms.
Pests and diseases
When grown in containers, Lady Palms can become susceptible to mites, scale insects, and mealybugs, so scouting for these pests regularly, and applying recommended integrated pest management practices, will ensure healthy growth.
Learn more:
For more information on Lady Palms, click on this link.
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