Chamaedorea
Chamaedorea, Parlor Palm, Bamboo Palm, Reed Palm
Chamaedorea erumpens, C. seifrizii, C. elegans "Neanthe Bella"
Light Level: Medium
Water Level: Medium
The genus Chamaedorea comes from the Greek words for “dwarf” and “gift.” They are small, clumping palms with slender trunks. They grow natively in moist, humid jungles, shaded by larger rainforest plants. Because of this, they require moderate light levels and have relatively weak root systems.
C. erumpens (bamboo palm) has broader leaflets ; its common name refers to the bamboo like nodes on the trunk. This plant is often confused with true Bamboo.
C. seifrizii (reed palm) is similar to C. erumpens but with narrower leaflets.
C. elegans “Neanthe bella” is a smaller variety that is often found in small containers or dish gardens.
C. hooperiana (Maya palm) is an elegant medium sized palm.
Country of Origin
Rainforests of Yucatan, Mexico, Guatemala and Belize, Central America
Maintenance Tips
Chamaedoreas are among the few palms that can be cut back, when necessary. The bamboo palm varieties can be cut back to within 2 inches of the soil line, and they will set back multiple shoots. They benefit greatly from occasional top dressing.
Pests and Problems
Spider mites, two-spotted mites, root mealybugs, fungus gnats. Tip burn will occur when plant soil is poorly aerated and waterlogged. Plants will drop leaves nearest to the flowering stalks, therefore, always remove blooms as soon as they appear.
For more care information visit our comprehensive Indoor Gardening Guide.