Indoor palms bring lush, tropical beauty to interior spaces—and two of the most popular, attractive, and resilient options are the Kentia Palm and the Lady Palm. At Simply Trees, we love helping customers choose palms that are not just beautiful, but practical in terms of care. Below you’ll find detailed care guides, comparisons, and tips to help your palms thrive.
Meet the Stars
- Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana) — Shop the Kentia Palm
- Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa) — Shop the Lady Palm
Why Choose Indoor Palms?
Indoor palms are excellent for:
- Softening interior architecture with their graceful fronds and vertical structure
- Purifying air and adding humidity in dry indoor environments
- Creating focal points in corners, entryways, or as living room accents
But palms can vary widely in their light, water, and humidity needs. Below are comparisons of the Kentia and Lady Palm so you can pick what’s best for your home.
Kentia Palm Care Guide
Origin & Appearance
Kentia Palm is native to Lord Howe Island, Australia. It has a refined, arching silhouette with long, feather-like fronds. Indoors, it stays manageable in height and adds an elegant vertical accent.
Light
- Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh midday sun.
- Tolerates lower light but may grow more slowly.
Water & Soil
- Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out between waterings.
- Use a well-draining potting mix. Avoid soggy soil.
Temperature & Humidity
- Ideal temperature: 65–85°F. Avoid temps below 55°F.
- Enjoys higher humidity—mist occasionally or use a tray with pebbles and water.
Feeding & Potting
- Fertilize in spring and summer with a balanced or palm-specific fertilizer.
- Repot only when root-bound. These palms dislike frequent disturbance.
Common Issues
Yellowing fronds: Overwatering or poor drainage. Allow soil to dry out and ensure proper drainage.
Browning tips: Low humidity or salt buildup. Increase humidity and flush soil if needed.
Pests: Spider mites, scale, or mealybugs. Wipe fronds regularly and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Lady Palm Care Guide
Overview & Appearance
Lady Palm is known for its clumping habit, fan-shaped fronds, and multiple slender canes. It has a lush, architectural look and thrives even in lower-light indoor environments.
Light
- Tolerates low light better than many palms.
- Prefers bright, indirect light for best growth and leaf color.
- Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves.
Water & Soil
- Water when the top ½ inch of soil is dry.
- Use a well-draining potting mix to avoid soggy roots.
Temperature & Humidity
- Ideal indoor temps: 60–80°F. Protect from drafts.
- Needs consistent humidity. Use a humidifier or mist regularly to prevent brown tips.
Feeding & Potting
- Fertilize during spring and summer with a diluted liquid or slow-release fertilizer.
- Repot when root-bound—typically every 2–3 years.
Common Issues
Pale leaves: Can be caused by low light or nutrient deficiency. Move to brighter location or fertilize.
Brown edges: Often a sign of low humidity or inconsistent watering.
Pests: Scale, spider mites, and mealybugs can occur. Wipe leaves clean and treat as needed.
Kentia vs. Lady Palm: Which One’s Right for You?
Light Tolerance
- Kentia Palm: Prefers bright, indirect light but can handle dimmer spaces.
- Lady Palm: More tolerant of low light—great for corners and rooms with less natural light.
Form
- Kentia Palm: Has a tall, arching, airy look that adds vertical drama.
- Lady Palm: Compact and full with fan-like fronds that give a structured, tropical vibe.
Growth Rate
- Kentia Palm: Grows slowly, especially in low light.
- Lady Palm: Grows even slower, especially if not given ideal light and humidity.
Humidity Needs
- Kentia Palm: Appreciates humidity but is fairly forgiving.
- Lady Palm: More sensitive to dry air—needs a more humid environment to avoid brown tips.
Best For
- Kentia Palm: Large spaces, statement plant lovers, and homes with filtered sunlight.
- Lady Palm: Small rooms, shaded corners, and homes that run humid or use humidifiers.
Care Tips & Tricks for Success
- Choose the right pot & soil. Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes.
- Watch the light. Adjust placement seasonally for consistent growth.
- Boost humidity. Use trays, misters, or group plants together.
- Keep a routine. Avoid sudden temperature changes and inconsistent watering.
- Clean and inspect. Wipe down fronds and check for pests monthly.
Why Buy from Simply Trees?
- Healthy, hand-selected stock
- Container-grown for easy indoor transitions
- Detailed care and customer support
- Plants shipped straight to your door with love
Final Thoughts
Indoor palms can feel like a bit of a commitment, but Kentia and Lady Palms are two of the easiest to care for and most visually rewarding. Choose the Kentia Palm for graceful, arching fronds and height. Choose the Lady Palm for a lush, full presence and low-light flexibility.
Ready to add one to your space?
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