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Palm decor
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A best friend to interior decorators, the Chamaedorae elegans is a popular indoor plant
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The plant requires moderate moisture and sunshine
THINK AGAIN if you thought palms are those tall trees which can be grown only outdoors. Chamaedorae elegans, also known as Collinia elegans and Neathebella, is one of the most popular indoor palms. It belongs to the family Palmae, originally grown in Mexico and Central America.
The plant has a short, erect green trunk and somewhat arching pinnate leaves, each about 15 cms long and 2 cms wide; and they are arranged almost in pairs along the yellowish green stalk with narrow sharp segments, bright green in colour. Insignificant yellow flowers may be produced in small sprays on erect stalks that emerge from leaf axils when the plants are more than three years old, followed by shiny scarlet fruits. Parlour palm is a small palm growing to a maximum height of 1-2 metres. Even when full grown, it does well in small pots, likes fairly humid conditions. Its leaf tips are likely to turn brown in dry condition. Chamaedorae needs freely draining compost with extra leaf mould mixed with sand; is best in a light position, though not in full sun.
Water freely but not too copiously — just to keep the potting mixture thoroughly moist during the active growth period. During the rest period, water moderately, just enough to keep the potting mixture to dry out between waterings.
Apply mild liquid fertiliser during the active period only. Sponge the leaves occasionally while keeping a watch for scale insects. Re-pot only when the roots have completely filled the pot. Propagation by seeds or by careful division. This handsome plant is so well liked by interior decorators that it is widely used for display in offices, shops and restaurants.
CHITRA RADHAKRISHNAN
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