Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti - Parlour Palm

Chamadorea ernesti-augusti is a species of small size, found on the slopes of dense, tropical and humid forests in the Gulf of Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and southern Mexico. It is a shade or semi-shade plant that requires moist soil and is quite sensitive to cold, but can be easily acclimated in a pot on a bright veranda or room with a humid atmosphere. It forms a beautiful green plant that will decorate the terrace or balcony during the summer, in the shade. It is appreciated for its delicate and elegant habit and its large, luxuriant, fish-tail shaped leaves.

A slow-growing shrub-like plant belonging to the family Arecaceae, highly appreciated as an indoor or orangery plant, the Chamadorea ernesti-augusti rarely exceeds 1.80 m in height and 80 cm (31.5 in) in width. This palm develops a very thin, slender, ringed trunk or stipe, resembling a bamboo cane, from which large leaves emerge measuring 50-60 cm (19.7-23.6 in) long and 30 cm (11.8 in) wide and imperfectly divided into two ovate and pointed segments, resembling a mermaid's tail. Each bright green segment is marked by numerous prominent parallel veins. This foliage, which persists throughout the year, gives it a unique appearance. The flowers rarely appear in cultivation. This palm has male and female individuals. The pale yellow flowers, are clustered on inflorescences resembling fine tentacles. This palm dies below -1°C and dislikes the sun, but is content with good, fertile soil.

Chamadorea ernesti-augusti has a unique presence, bringing a beautiful touch of exoticism to any decor. Place it on the terrace or balcony, accompanied by Phormiums, tree ferns, or Cycas for example. It is challenging to combine with other plants due to its strong personality but it can be planted in groups of 3 in a carefully chosen large pot, and a carpet of Japanese grass, golden pearlwort, or plectranthus can be placed at its base.