Cataractarum Palms

Cat Palms are native to Southeastern Mexico. Indoors this plant can grow to the height of 4-6 feet, but it will take a while before the pant reaches that height. It requires a very tropical environment; bright indirect light and plenty of water. This is a very attractive plant that produces glossy, dark green leaves on thin shoots.

Cat Palms require bright, indirect light, but not direct sun that would cause the leaves to burn.

These palm like to have moist soil at all times, but not soggy. Cat Palms are very unforgiving if the soil gets too dry. Salty water or fluoride will cause leaf tip burn.

Less is better rather than more with palms. Feed monthly are the Spring and Summer with a well-balanced houseplant food at ½ the recommended strength.

Only fertilize once or twice during Fall and Winter.

The lack of humidity is one of the main reasons Cat Palms DO NOT thrive indoors. An ideally room should be about 55% humidity. You can place a humidifier in the room or place the palm on a wet pebble tray. Just make sure the plant is sitting on the pebbles and not in the water.

Palms like heat, but too much dry heat causes leaf damage. Avoid placing palms in drafts, in front of heaters, air conditioners or in unheated rooms during the Winter. The ideal temperature is 80°F during the day and no lower than 45°F at night.

Print This Page