Areca: Cultivation, Planting and Care of the Indoor Palm Tree

botany

Commonly referred to as ‘Areca’ indoors, this plant is actually Dypsis lutescens, a palm highly prized 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.

The name “Areca” is commonly used to refer to Dypsis lutescens, a palm highly favoured for indoor cultivation. Dypsis, closely related to Areca, are indoor palms adored for their slender appearance and finely divided foliage. However, this name is botanically incorrect, 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 commonplace, as well as the morphological resemblance between Dypsis lutescens and some palms of the Areca genus. Historically, botanical classifications have also evolved, further perpetuating the 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 palms, 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 this popular indoor palm as Dypsis lutescens.

The true Areca genus comprises 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, best known for its seeds used in traditional medicine and for chewing in Asia. There is also Areca triandra (Triandra palm), more compact, producing basal shoots and slightly better suited to indoor cultivation, and Areca vestiaria (Orange palm), highly decorative with its bright orange stems but requiring high humidity. The “true” Areca palms are less common indoors as they demand more tropical conditions. Unlike Dypsis lutescens, which adapts well to indoor environments, true Areca palms are more demanding and are typically found in tropical settings.

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

In tropical regions, Dypsis lutescens is nicknamed “Clustering palm” due to its ability to produce numerous offshoots that form a dense clump. Its slender, golden stems bear long, arching leaves of vibrant green, earning it the nickname “Bamboo palm.” This palm captivates with its elegant habit 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 stands out for 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, earning it the nickname “Bamboo palm.” The Areca naturally produces offshoots at the base of its stems. These offshoots are young shoots emerging from the plant’s base, contributing to its bushy, dense habit. In the wild, the Areca can reach up to 10 metres in height. In containers, it remains much more compact, rarely exceeding 2 to 3 metres in height.

Its root system is fasciculate, consisting 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 a vibrant 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 stems, enhancing the plant’s feathery, 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 at maturity and containing the famous betel nuts. However, indoors, the Areca seldom flowers, as it requires conditions very close to its natural habitat to produce inflorescences.

The Areca is renowned for its ability to purify indoor air by absorbing certain toxins. 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, commonly found in homes and offices.

The Areca adds a very graphic touch to our interiors, while also 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 astonishing ability to flourish in low-light conditions, allowing it to thrive in places where other plants would struggle. To ensure its well-being, choose a bright location 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 spot for an Areca is a bright location sheltered from direct sunlight, such as behind a sheer window or glazed door

When to Plant an Indoor Areca?

The ideal time to plant or repot an Areca is in spring, ensuring it is established under optimal 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 perforated pot or container, slightly larger than the root ball, to allow the roots to develop properly.
• Place a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot with clay pebbles, gravel, or broken terracotta pot pieces. This will prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
• Plant your Areca gently 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 (the transition zone between the roots and stems) is level with the soil. It should neither be buried too deeply 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 entire 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 suited to the size of your Areca, slightly larger than the root ball

How to care for a multiplying palm tree?

Maintaining the Areca is quite straightforward, making it an ideal plant for indoor spaces. The Areca enjoys humidity but dislikes excessive water, so it’s essential to strike the right balance. Water regularly with non-calcareous water, but allow the growing medium 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 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 doesn’t require regular pruning. Simply remove any dry or damaged leaves using disinfected pruning shears.

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

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

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

Multiplication of the Areca Palm

Suckers can be left in place to keep a 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 parent plant.

• Using a sharp and sterilised knife, separate the suckers from the parent 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 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 appeal, 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 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.