Howea forsteriana Plant Care

Learn All About Howea forsteriana Plant Care with our Guide

The much-loved Howea forsteriana has adorned palm courts at The Ritz in London and The Plaza Hotel in New York. Native to the islands of the South Pacific, it is an elegant palm that can tolerate shade and cold temperatures and slowly grow up to ten feet tall indoors.

Caring for your Howea forsteriana

Howea forsteriana Sunlight

A Howea forsteriana is best placed in bright indirect sunlight, although they can tolerate a little direct sun and some shade. If your Howea forsteriana receives too much sun the leaves will scorch and it may need time to acclimatise to a sunnier spot.

Howea forsteriana Soil & Nutrients

Any well-draining potting mix will suffice for your Howea forsteriana. Apply a diluted liquid fertiliser monthly during the growing season (May to August). If you see the brown tips on the lower leaves, it may be due to too much fertiliser.

Howea forsteriana Water

Howea forsteriana like a moderate amount of water. In the spring and summer wait until the top few centimetres of soil are dry before watering, and reduce watering in the autumn and winter. Brown leaf tips can indicate your plant is thirsty, while yellowing leaves suggest too much water.

Howea forsteriana Climate & Humidity

Due to their tropical origins, Howea forsteriana like warm and humid conditions and are well suited to a bathroom or kitchen. Consider increasing humidity by misting your plant regularly, especially if you are using heating or air conditioning.

Howea forsteriana Maintenance

Howea forsteriana are pretty low maintenance once they are established. Keep the leaves clean of dust by wiping them with a damp cloth and pruning any yellow or dead fronds.