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What is Howea?

Niki Foster
Niki Foster
Niki Foster
Niki Foster

Howea, or Kentia palm, is a genus of palm trees with only two species: H. belmoreana and H. forsteriana. Both have a native range limited to Lord Howe Island in Australia, though they are cultivated in other areas as ornamental plants. H. forsteriana grows well in containers and is a popular houseplant, while H. belmoreana does better as an outdoor plant. Common names for the Howea palms include thatch palm for H. forsteriana, and Belmore sentry palm or curly palm for H. belmoreana

In the wild, H. forsteriana grows in lowland forests, particularly in sandy soils, while H. belmoreana grows mainly at higher elevations, with some trees interspersed with the H. forsteriana population. The leaves of H. forsteriana have an elegant, drooping appearance, while H. belmoreana looks more angular. The flowering seasons of the two species are seven weeks apart, with H. forsteriana flowering earlier, so hybrids of the two species are rare in nature.

Man mowing the grass
Man mowing the grass

Both Howea species are cultivated on the nearby Norfolk Island, and Howea seeds and seedlings are an important export for both Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island. Both plants are of vulnerable conservation status. The trade in Howea plants is strictly regulated to protect the genus from overexploitation.

Howea prefers growing conditions similar to those it enjoys in its natural habitat. It grows best in subtropical climates, with warm temperatures year round, abundant rainfall, and high humidity. Kentia palms also do well in warm temperate climates, and some tropical climates. They do not require much light, and can tolerate temperatures just below freezing as long as they do not persist for more than a few hours.

Kentia palms are grown as decorative outdoor plants, in gardens or along streets. They grow well in southern Spain and the southern United States, where climates are similar to the natural habitat of the Howea palms. In such areas, the trees also bloom and bear fruit.

H. forsteriana can grow to be 60 feet (18 meters) tall, while H. belmoreana is smaller, with a maximum height of 23 feet (7 meters). Though it is smaller, H. belmoreana does not thrive when potted, so is rarely kept as a houseplant. H. forsteriana, on the other hand, has been a popular indoor plant since the Victorian era. Indoor specimens usually grow to be 5 to 12 feet (1.5 to 3.7 meters) in height.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Howea and where is it commonly found?

Howea refers to a genus of palms, specifically the Howea forsteriana and Howea belmoreana, which are native to Lord Howe Island, Australia. These palms are renowned for their elegant, arching fronds and are commonly used as indoor plants worldwide due to their adaptability and low maintenance requirements.

What are the distinctive features of Howea palms?

Howea palms are characterized by their slender, ringed trunks and lush, feather-shaped fronds that can reach several meters in length. Howea forsteriana, also known as the Kentia palm, typically has a more upright stance, while Howea belmoreana, or the Sentry palm, has more curved fronds, giving it a distinctive, umbrella-like appearance.

How do you care for a Howea palm indoors?

Caring for a Howea palm indoors involves providing bright, indirect light, consistent moisture without waterlogging, and regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. They thrive in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and prefer high humidity, which can be maintained by misting or using a humidifier.

Are Howea palms slow-growing, and how tall can they get?

Yes, Howea palms are slow-growing plants. In their natural habitat, they can reach heights of up to 60 feet (18 meters), but when grown indoors, they typically reach between 5 to 12 feet (1.5 to 3.6 meters) over many years, making them suitable for residential and commercial spaces.

Can Howea palms purify indoor air?

Howea palms are among the plants recognized for their air-purifying qualities. According to NASA's Clean Air Study, they can remove indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, contributing to a healthier indoor environment by improving air quality.

What are the common problems to watch out for when growing Howea palms?

Common problems when growing Howea palms include brown leaf tips, which can indicate under-watering, low humidity, or excess fertilizer. Pests such as spider mites and scale insects may also infest the plants, particularly in dry indoor conditions. Regular inspection and maintaining proper care are crucial for preventing these issues.

Niki Foster
Niki Foster

In addition to her role as a AllThingsNature editor, Niki enjoys educating herself about interesting and unusual topics in order to get ideas for her own articles. She is a graduate of UCLA, where she majored in Linguistics and Anthropology.

Learn more...
Niki Foster
Niki Foster

In addition to her role as a AllThingsNature editor, Niki enjoys educating herself about interesting and unusual topics in order to get ideas for her own articles. She is a graduate of UCLA, where she majored in Linguistics and Anthropology.

Learn more...

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