Chamaedorea

This compact tropical palm produces a fountain of arching evergreen foliage, typically 30–60cm (1–2ft) long, with each frond made up of multiple pairs of narrow leaflets. Growth is slow, but even young plants can produce sprays of small yellow flowers, followed by round black fruits, when grown in sufficient light.

Parlour palms prefer bright but indirect light and free-draining peat-free compost that is acidic (ericaceous) to neutral. Keep at 20–27°C (68–80°F) for best growth. Over winter, when growth naturally slows, parlour palms will cope with cooler conditions (around 13°C/55°F) and less frequent watering.

Avoid positioning in bright direct sun in summer, which can scorch the foliage. Hard tap water, if used regularly, can harm a parlour palm, creating unsuitably alkaline conditions – use rainwater whenever possible. Too little water or dry air can cause the leaves to turn brown at the tips, while waterlogged conditions and/or heavy, loam-based compost can lead to root rot.

The parlour palm has been a popular houseplant since Victorian times, when it was first brought to the UK. Thanks to its easy-going nature and elegant good looks, it’s one of the most extensively sold indoor palms in the world.