Cat Palm Care Guide
Cat palms (Chamaedorea cataractarum) are loved for their flexible light needs and their easy care. To keep your cat palm healthy, it's important to know how to care for it properly. Here, we'll answer common questions about light, water, temperature, humidity, pruning, and common issues with cat palms.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Cat palm, cascade palm, cataract palm |
| Botanical Name | Chamaedorea cataractarum |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial, Shrub |
| Mature Size | Up to 3 ft. tall indoors, 6-8 ft. tall outdoors |
| Sun Exposure | Partial |
| Soil Type | Loose, Well-drained |
| Soil pH | Neutral |
| Bloom Time | Winter, Spring |
| Flower Color | Yellow |
| Hardiness Zones | 9-11 (USDA) |
| Native Area | Mexico, Central America |
How much light does a Cat Palm need?
Cat palms thrive in places with plenty of indirect sunlight but can also tolerate lower light levels. Place your cat palm near a filtered light source (i.e. a window). Essentially, you want to keep it away from direct sunlight, as that can cause leaf scorching.
How often should I water a Cat Palm?
To keep your cat palm thriving, make sure it's well-hydrated. Check the soil's moisture level by feeling the top inch; if it's dry, it's time to water. Make sure to water thoroughly, letting excess water drain out to avoid waterlogging. Try to water your cat palm once a week, adjusting as necessary depending on the environment and the plant's needs.
What are the temperature + humidity needs for a Cat Palm?
Temperature
Cat palms thrive in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Maintain consistent temperature levels by placing your cat palm away from drafts and heating or cooling sources. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations, as this may stress the plant.
Humidity
These tropical plants thrive in moderate to high humidity levels similar to their native rainforest habitats. Aim to maintain humidity levels between 50-70%.
To increase humidity around your cat palm, consider the following methods:
Place a humidifier near your plant - or just run the shower.
Place a tray filled with water and pebbles beneath the pot to create a humid microclimate around the plant.
Mist the leaves regularly with room temperature water to simulate tropical conditions.
How should I prune my Cat Palm?
Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the appearance and vitality of your cat palm. Remove any yellow or brown fronds as they emerge to encourage new growth. Utilize clean, sharp pruning shears to make precise cuts at a 45-degree angle. Additionally, trim any dead or damaged fronds to promote a neat and tidy appearance.
What common issues does a Cat Palm experience?
Brown tips on leaves: This may indicate low humidity levels or water quality issues. Increase humidity levels by misting the leaves and use filtered or distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.
Yellowing leaves: This could be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust your watering routine and consider fertilizing your cat palm with a balanced fertilizer to address nutrient deficiencies.
Pest infestations: Cat palms are susceptible to pests such as spider mites and scale insects. Treat infestations promptly with natural remedies or insecticidal soap, and isolate the affected plant to prevent spreading.
