Plant Library
Areca Palm Care Guide
Dypsis lutescens
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
Feathery, golden-stemmed fronds make a big, pet-safe statement for bright rooms.
Plant profile
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Water
- When the top inch is dry
- Humidity
- Average to high
- Pets
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Size
- Large: 4-7 ft
- Growth
- Moderate
Light
Bright indirect light. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
When the top inch is dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: average to high. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Flush the soil every few months to clear fertilizer salts.
Common problems
- Brown tips: Salts, fluoride or dry air.
- Yellow fronds: Too much sun or underfeeding.
- Spider mites: Dry air.
Pets
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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