Chrysalidocarpus lutescens commonly called Areca palm, Golden palm or Butterfly palm originates from Madagascar where sadly it is now endangered and very rare.
Golden palm as it is referred to here in Guyana and the Caribbean is one of the most useful palms in Caribbean gardens with its tropical looks, having adapted well here hundreds of years ago.
Golden palms grows in clumps and are excellent in outdoor landscaping. They can be planted in a clump or alongside a fence as an informal hedge. With graceful and feathery leaves when exposed to the full sun this palm has a lovely golden yellow colour – hence the name. The Golden palm can grow approximately up to 20 feet tall outdoors, and while it is very adaptable indoors, it grows much more slowly to roughly 4 to 6 feet. It is also the most popular indoor potted palm. Golden palm gained the Royal Horticultural Society award of Garden Merit.
Plant Golden palm in well-drained potting soil and remember it likes to be moist. It looks best in bright diffuse light. Fertilize with Miracle Gro All Purpose Plant Food every two weeks.
It can be planted by seed, but small plants are available for sale. If you like Golden palms plant a few as potted plants and decorate your home with them.
Until next week, Happy Gardening!
