Parlor Palm Vs Areca Palm: Which One to Choose?

Oleh Sally Cummings May 25, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you looking for the perfect indoor palm tree to decorate your living room? If so, you might want to consider either a parlor palm or an areca palm. Both of these plants have distinct characteristics that make them ideal for different types of spaces and environments.

In this article, we will explore the differences between the parlor palm and the areca palm in terms of their appearance, care requirements, and benefits. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of which one is best suited for your needs.

Appearance

The first thing that you will notice about these two plants is their appearance. The parlor palm has a more compact growth habit, with fronds that grow upward from a central point. The leaves are typically smaller and thinner than those of the areca palm, and they have a darker green coloration.

On the other hand, the areca palm has a more open growth habit, with fronds that grow outward from a central stem. The leaves are broader and more feather-like, giving the plant a fuller appearance. The areca palm also has a lighter green coloration, which can add a bright pop of color to any room.

Care Requirements

When it comes to caring for your indoor palm tree, both the parlor palm and the areca palm require similar conditions. They both prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. However, there are some differences to keep in mind.

The parlor palm prefers slightly cooler temperatures and higher humidity levels than the areca palm. It also requires less frequent watering, as its roots are sensitive to overwatering. In contrast, the areca palm thrives in warmer temperatures and lower humidity levels. It also requires more frequent watering, as its roots can dry out quickly.

Benefits

Both the parlor palm and the areca palm offer a variety of benefits that make them popular indoor plants. For example, they both help to purify the air by removing harmful toxins and pollutants. They also add a touch of greenery to any space, which can help to reduce stress and improve mood.

However, there are some differences in their specific benefits. The parlor palm is known for its ability to remove formaldehyde from the air, making it ideal for homes with new furniture or carpeting. The areca palm, on the other hand, is known for its ability to add moisture to the air, making it ideal for dry climates or during the winter months.

Other Factors to Consider

In addition to appearance, care requirements, and benefits, there are some other factors to consider when choosing between a parlor palm and an areca palm. For example:

Size: The areca palm can grow up to 8 feet tall, while the parlor palm typically stays around 4 feet tall.
Price: The areca palm is generally more expensive than the parlor palm.
Availability: The parlor palm is more widely available than the areca palm.

Ultimately, the choice between a parlor palm and an areca palm comes down to personal preference. Both plants have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs and fits your style.

In conclusion, both the parlor palm and the areca palm are excellent choices for indoor palm trees. They both offer a variety of benefits and require similar care conditions. However, the parlor palm has a more compact growth habit and prefers cooler temperatures, while the areca palm has a more open growth habit and prefers warmer temperatures.

When deciding between these two plants, consider your personal preferences, as well as the size, price, and availability. With the right care, either a parlor palm or an areca palm can add a touch of greenery and vitality to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What's the difference between a parlor palm and an areca palm?

A: The main difference between these two plants is their appearance. The parlor palm has a more compact growth habit, with smaller and darker leaves, while the areca palm has a more open growth habit, with larger and lighter leaves.

Q2. Which one is easier to care for?

A: Both the parlor palm and the areca palm require similar care conditions, but the parlor palm prefers slightly cooler temperatures and higher humidity levels, while the areca palm prefers warmer temperatures and lower humidity levels.

Q3. Can I grow these palms outside?

A: No, both the parlor palm and the areca palm are indoor plants that don't tolerate cold temperatures or direct sunlight.

Q4. How often should I water my palm tree?

A: The parlor palm requires less frequent watering than the areca palm, as its roots are sensitive to overwatering. However, both plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Q5. Do these plants help purify the air?

A: Yes, both the parlor palm and the areca palm are known for their ability to remove harmful toxins and pollutants from the air.

Q6. Which one is more expensive?

A: Generally, the areca palm is more expensive than the parlor palm.

Q7. Can I propagate these plants?

A: Yes, both the parlor palm and the areca palm can be propagated by dividing the root ball or taking stem cuttings.

Q8. What's the best fertilizer for these plants?

A: These plants prefer a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season.