Fishtail Palm
Fishtail Palm
Caryota mitis
Light Level: High
Water Level: Medium
Fishtail palm does best in a good light location. It is shallow-rooted. It is called “fishtail” because of its jagged-edged leaves that are shaped somewhat like the fins and tails of fish.
Country of Origin
Tropical rainforests from India through to southeast Asia
Maintenance Tips
Palms will produce new growth only from the tip of the stalk. Pinching back this tip or cutting off the newest frond below its point of attachment to the trunk will eliminate all new growth. Remove blossoms to prevent the stem from dying.
Note: When handling its red fruit, always wear gloves. The fruit contains oxalic acid which can cause chemical burns if it contacts the skin. Fruit is toxic if ingested.
This plant cannot tolerate cold temperatures and should be kept away from drafts and air conditioning.
If the plant is situated in high light it will require more frequent waterings.
As an indoor plant, the natural, normal color is light green. Do not try to create darker green foliage by over-fertilizing.
Pests and Problems
Pseudomonas is a bacterium which causes a leaf spot disease of blight to which palms are most susceptible, Caryotas in particular. Symptoms are wet areas around long brown lesions with necrotic centers, running parallel to the leaf vein. New leaves are most severely affected. Remove the infected foliage and keep it dry to control the disease.
Plant needs well drained soil. To prevent leaf edges from turning rust-colored, water with non-fluoridated water or with water that has been left to stand until chemical additives have evaporated.
For more care information visit our comprehensive Indoor Gardening Guide.