Areca: Cultivation, Planting and Care of the Indoor Palm

Botany

What is commonly referred to as ‘Areca’ indoors is actually Dypsis lutescens, a palm tree highly prized for its delicate foliage and graceful appearance. However, although this commercial name is widely used, it is not a true Areca in the botanical sense.

The name Areca is commonly used to refer to Dypsis lutescens, a palm tree very popular as an indoor plant. Dypsis, closely related to Areca, are indoor palms loved for their slender appearance and finely divided foliage. However, this name is incorrect from a botanical perspective, as Dypsis lutescens does not belong to the Areca genus, although it is part of the same Arecaceae family, which includes tropical and subtropical palms. This confusion stems from the commercial use of the term “Areca”, which has become common in everyday language, as well as the morphological resemblance between Dypsis lutescens and some palms of the Areca genus. Historically, botanical classifications have also evolved, contributing to the ongoing ambiguity.

In reality, Dypsis lutescens, native to Madagascar, is distinguished by its multiple stems and rapid growth, making it well-suited for indoor cultivation. True Areca, such as Areca catechu, are less common indoors and have more tropical cultivation requirements. Thus, even though the name “Areca” remains widely used, it is more accurate to refer to Dypsis lutescens when describing this popular indoor palm.

The true Areca genus includes approximately 50 to 60 species of tropical palms, primarily native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. These palms grow naturally in humid tropical forests, particularly in India and extending to the Pacific Islands. They thrive in warm, humid climates, flourishing in shaded, well-drained environments where heat and moisture promote lush growth. The Areca genus (true Areca) includes species such as Areca catechu, the betel nut palm, which is best known for its seeds used in traditional medicine and for chewing in Asia. There is also Areca triandra (Triandra palm), more compact, it produces suckers at the base and is slightly better suited to indoor cultivation, and Areca vestiaria (Orange crownshaft palm), highly decorative with its bright orange stems, but requiring high humidity. True Areca are less common indoors as they require more tropical conditions. Unlike Dypsis lutescens, which adapts well to indoor environments, true Areca are more demanding and are mainly found in tropical settings.

These species are more demanding than Dypsis lutescens, which explains why the latter has become the quintessential indoor palm, even though its scientific name is not Areca.

In the tropics, Dypsis lutescens is nicknamed “Clustering Palm” due to its ability to produce numerous suckers that form a dense clump. Its slender, golden stems bear long, arching leaves of vibrant green, earning it the nickname “Bamboo Palm”. This palm is admired for its elegant appearance and ease of cultivation, which is why it is widely marketed as “Areca” for indoor growing.

The Areca features large, finely divided leaves attached to slender, light green to pale yellow stems

The Areca is distinguished by its elegant and graceful appearance. It typically forms a clump of several slender, smooth stems (trunks), ranging in colour from light green to yellowish. These stems resemble bamboo stalks, earning it the nickname “Bamboo Palm”. The Areca naturally produces suckers at the base of its stems. These suckers are young shoots that emerge from the base of the plant, contributing to its bushy and dense appearance. In the wild, the Areca can reach up to 10 metres in height. When grown in pots, it will remain much smaller, not exceeding 2 to 3 metres in height. 

Its root system is fibrous, consisting of numerous small, fine roots that spread horizontally near the surface. This dense network ensures good stability and facilitates rapid water absorption, but it remains shallow, making the plant sensitive to overwatering.

The foliage of the Areca is characteristic of the species. It consists of long, arching, pinnate leaves of a bright green colour. These leaves, supported by a central rachis, are divided into numerous narrow, regular leaflets. These leaves can grow up to two metres long. They grow in clusters at the top of the stems, enhancing the plant’s feathery and lush appearance.

Indoors, it rarely flowers. But in its natural habitat or when grown under optimal conditions, the Areca produces clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers, ranging from cream to pale yellow. These flowers are grouped in panicles that emerge from the leaf axils. In some species, such as Areca catechu, these flowers develop into ovoid fruits, turning orange to red when ripe, containing the famous betel nuts. However, when grown indoors, the Areca rarely flowers, as it requires conditions very close to its natural habitat to produce inflorescences.

The Areca is known for its ability to purify indoor air by absorbing certain toxins present in our homes. It is a true ally for improving air quality. Studies, including those conducted by NASA on air-purifying plants, have shown that certain indoor plants, including the Areca (Dypsis lutescens), can absorb atmospheric pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene, which are present in our homes and offices.

The Areca brings a very graphic touch to our interiors, in addition to purifying the air!

Planting the Areca Palm

Where to place an Areca?

The Areca thrives in warm and bright environments, making it an ideal indoor plant. In nature, however, it has developed an impressive ability to flourish in low-light conditions, allowing it to thrive in areas where other plants might struggle. To ensure it grows well, choose a bright spot but avoid direct sunlight, as its delicate leaves could burn. A room with filtered light, such as near a sheer east or north-east-facing window, will suit it perfectly. Avoid draughts and overly cold areas, as it prefers temperatures between 18 and 24°C.

The ideal location for an Areca is a bright spot sheltered from direct sunlight, such as behind a sheer window or glazed door

When to plant an indoor Areca?

The best time to plant or repot an Areca is in spring, to give it ideal conditions for its growth period. However, it can be planted year-round.

How to plant an Areca step by step?

Ensure the substrate is light and airy to allow the roots to breathe. This tropical palm thrives in bright, warm, and well-drained environments.

• Choose a pot or container with drainage holes, slightly larger than the root ball, to allow the roots to develop properly.
• Add a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot using clay pebbles, gravel, or broken pieces of terracotta pots. This will prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
• Gently plant your Areca in a mix of 50% garden soil, 25% compost or humus, and 25% sand, or opt for a light potting mix for indoor plants.
• Ensure the crown (the transition area between the roots and stems) is level with the soil. It should neither be buried too deep nor exposed.
• Add the remaining mix around the root ball and lightly firm it to stabilise the plant.
• Water in stages to thoroughly moisten the substrate and eliminate air pockets.
• Place your Areca in a bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight, which could scorch its leaves. A room with filtered light will be ideal.

Choose a pot that suits the size of your Areca, slightly larger than the root ball

How to Care for a Clustering Palm?

The care of the Areca palm is quite simple, making it an ideal plant for indoor spaces. The Areca enjoys humidity but dislikes excess water, so it’s essential to strike the right balance. Water regularly with non-calcareous water, but allow the substrate to dry slightly on the surface between waterings. In summer, its water needs are greater than in winter. To check if your Areca needs water, insert your finger into the soil: if it feels dry a few centimetres down, it’s time to water.

Native to tropical forests, the Areca thrives in a humid environment. Mist its foliage regularly with non-calcareous water, especially in winter when heating dries out the air. You can also place the pot on a bed of moist clay pebbles.

The Areca does not require regular pruning. Simply remove dry or damaged leaves using disinfected secateurs.

During the growing season, i.e. in spring and summer, feed your Areca with a special palm fertiliser once a month.

Repot it every 2 to 3 years, into a slightly larger pot, preferably in spring when its roots begin to feel cramped.

The Areca will appreciate occasional misting of its foliage

Diseases and potential pests

The Areca palm is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, it can be susceptible to root rot caused by overwatering or poor drainage. This leads to yellowing leaves and a drooping plant. Reduce watering, ensure the pot has proper drainage, and repot with fresh, healthy soil if necessary.

It can also be attacked by scale insects or spider mites if the air is too dry. Increase the humidity around your Areca by regularly misting it with water, as scale insects and spider mites dislike moisture. Clean the leaves with a cloth soaked in soapy water or 70°C alcohol, and treat with a natural insecticide (neem oil).

→ Read our articles to learn more about suitable treatments for scale insects and spider mites.

Multiplication of the Areca

Suckers can be left in place to keep the plant bushy, or removed in spring to propagate the plant. To do this, simply wait until a sucker is well developed, with a few roots. Since it does not fruit in our latitudes, removing suckers is the most suitable technique. It is important not to remove too many suckers at once to avoid weakening the mother plant.

• Using a sharp and sterilised knife, separate the suckers from the mother plant, taking care not to damage the roots. Each sucker should have a few roots.
• Plant each sucker in an individual pot filled with fresh, well-draining compost.
• Water generously to encourage establishment.

Areca: The Trendy Indoor Plant!

The Areca is a true decorative asset thanks to its light and elegant foliage that adds a tropical and soothing touch to any interior. Its graceful form and airy silhouette allow it to blend harmoniously into various decoration styles.

What type of interior suits the Areca?

• Bohemian style: With its feathery leaves and natural look, the Areca fits perfectly into a bohemian decor, surrounded by natural materials like rattan, linen, or macramé.
• Tropical/urban jungle style: It’s the ideal plant for creating an exotic corner when paired with other green plants like the Monstera, Philodendron, or Kentia palm.
• Contemporary and minimalist style: In a clean-lined interior, the Areca adds a touch of greenery without overwhelming the space, thanks to its light and slender form.
• Office: The Areca is often used in offices or entrance halls to create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.