Areca: Cultivation, Planting and Care of the Indoor Palm

Botany

What is commonly called ‘Areca’ indoors is actually Dypsis lutescens, a palm tree much appreciated for its delicate foliage and graceful habit. However, although this commercial name is widely used, it is not a true Areca in the botanical sense of the term.

The name Areca is commonly used to refer to Dypsis lutescens, a palm tree very popular as a houseplant. Dypsis, closely related to Areca, are indoor palms loved for their slender appearance and divided foliage. However, this name is incorrect from a botanical point of view, 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 usage, as well as the morphological resemblance between Dypsis lutescens and certain palms of the Areca genus. Historically, botanical classifications have also evolved, contributing to maintaining this ambiguity.

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

The true Areca genus comprises approximately 50 to 60 species of tropical palms, mainly native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. These palms grow naturally in humid tropical forests, particularly in India and as far as the Pacific Islands. They thrive in warm and humid climates, growing in shaded and well-drained environments where heat and humidity promote their lush development. The Areca genus (true Areca) includes species such as Areca catechu, the betel nut palm, 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 basal shoots and is somewhat better adapted to indoor cultivation, and Areca vestiaria (Orange crownshaft palm), very decorative with its bright orange trunks, but requiring high humidity. The “true” Areca palms are less common indoors as they require more tropical conditions. Unlike Dypsis lutescens, which adapts well to our interiors, true Areca palms are more demanding and are mainly found in tropical environments.

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 trunks bear long, arching leaves of bright green, earning it the nickname “bamboo palm”. This palm is loved for its elegant habit and ease of cultivation, which is why it is widely marketed as “areca” for indoor cultivation.

The Areca has large, finely divided leaves attached to slender, light green to pale yellow trunks

The Areca is distinguished by its elegant and graceful appearance. It typically forms a clump of several slender, smooth trunks, light green to yellowish in colour. These trunks resemble bamboo stems, earning it the nickname “Bamboo palm”. The Areca naturally produces suckers at the base of its trunks. These suckers are young shoots that emerge from the base of the plant and contribute to its bushy, dense habit. In nature, the Areca can reach up to 10 m in height. It will remain much smaller in a pot, not exceeding 2 to 3 m in height.

Its root system is fasciculate, composed of numerous 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, pinnate leaves, slightly arched and bright green. These leaves, supported by a central rachis, are divided into numerous narrow, regular pinnae. These leaves can grow up to two metres long. They grow in clusters at the top of the trunks, enhancing the feathery and lush appearance of the plant.

Indoors, it rarely flowers. But in its natural environment or when grown under optimal conditions, the Areca produces clusters of small, inconspicuous flowers, cream to pale yellow in colour. These flowers are grouped in panicles that emerge from the leaf axils. In some species such as Areca catechu, these flowers later develop into ovoid fruits, 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 develop its inflorescences.

The Areca is recognised for its ability to purify the ambient 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 houseplants, including the Areca (Dypsis lutescens), can absorb atmospheric pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene and toluene, 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 young plant

Where to place an Areca?

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

The ideal placement for an Areca is in a bright spot sheltered from direct sunlight, such as behind a sheer-curtained window or glass door

When to plant an indoor Areca?

The best time to plant or repot an Areca is in spring, ensuring 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.
• Place a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot using clay pebbles, gravel, or broken terracotta pot pieces. This prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
• Gently plant your Areca in a mix composed of 50% garden soil, 25% compost or humus, and 25% sand, or opt for a light potting mix for indoor plants.
• Ensure the collar (transition zone between the roots and stems) is level with the soil. It should neither be buried too deep nor left exposed.
• Fill in the remaining mix around the root ball and lightly firm to stabilise the plant.
• Water in stages to thoroughly moisten the entire substrate and eliminate air pockets.
• Place your Areca in a bright spot, avoiding direct sunlight that could scorch its leaves. A room with filtered light will be ideal.

Choose a pot suited to the size of your Areca, slightly larger than the root ball

How to Care for a Clustering Palm?

The care of the Areca is quite simple, making it an ideal plant for indoor spaces. The Areca enjoys humidity but dislikes excess water, so finding the right medium is essential. Water regularly with non-calcareous water, but allow the growing medium to dry slightly on the surface between waterings. In summer, its water requirements are higher than in winter. To check if your Areca needs water, insert your finger into the compost: 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 the air. You can also place the pot on a bed of moistened clay pebbles.

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

During the growth period—in spring and summer—feed your Areca with a special palm fertiliser once a month.

Repot 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 is relatively resistant to diseases and parasitic pests. However, it can be susceptible to root rot caused by excess water or poor drainage. This leads to yellowing of the leaves and drooping of the plant. Reduce watering, ensure the pot has proper drainage, and repot with fresh compost if necessary.

It may also be attacked by scale insects or spider mites in overly dry air. Increase ambient humidity around your Areca by regularly misting 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 insecticidal spray (neem oil).

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

Propagation of the Areca

The offshoots can be left in place to maintain a bushy plant, or removed in spring to propagate the plant. To do this, simply wait until an offshoot is well developed, with a few roots. As it does not fruit in our latitudes, removing the offshoots is the most suitable technique. It is important not to remove too many offshoots at once so as not to weaken the mother plant.

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

Areca: The Trendy Houseplant!

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

Which type of interior suits the Areca?

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