Yellow butterfly palm - Dypsis lutescens (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Yellow butterfly palm

Also known as: Golden cane palm, Yellow palm

Yellow butterfly palm (Dypsis lutescens) is a flowering plant that originated in Madagascar. Other common names for yellow butterfly palm are golden cane palm and yellow palm. In tropical regions it's grown as an outdoor plant for ornamental horticulture. In temperate regions its grown indoors as a houseplant.

Scientific classification

Species

Yellow butterfly palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Palms, bullanocks, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Palm

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

6 m to 9 m

Plant Height

3 m to 6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

15 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Black, Orange, Gold

Fruit Color

Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Yellow butterfly palm

Distribution of Yellow butterfly palm

Distribution Map

Yellow butterfly palm is native to Madagascar, where it grows in white-sand forests near the ocean. It has been introduced in a few tropical Asian and Central American countries as well as Florida.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air and effectively remove toxic gases such as formaldehyde.

Garden Use

Yellow butterfly palm is a perennial tree commonly found in tropical and subtropical gardens. It is prized for its yellow hues. Its long-arching fronds provide privacy, so it is suitable for screen cover or as an informal hedge. Yellow butterfly palm is appropriate for rock gardens. Suggested companion plants include Viburnum suspensum to create textural contrast, or Jataropha for color contrast.

Symbolism

Soft, beautiful and moving

Interesting Facts

Legend has it that yellow butterfly palm leaves once grew very straight and dense. During a war, a general could not find a hiding place, but could only hide among yellow butterfly palms. He prayed that the yellow butterfly palm could help him. Unexpectedly, it opened its leaves around him to help him easily escape.

Name Story

Yellow butterfly palm: Although it looks like an evergreen palm plant, it grows yellow conical flowers during the summer. As a foliage-viewing plant, the leaves curve upwards in multiple stems creating a butterfly look. Hence, it is called a yellow butterfly palm.

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Care Guide for Yellow butterfly palm

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from Madagascar, yellow butterfly palm flourishes in humid conditions similar to its tropical rainforest habitat. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks, avoiding waterlogging. Indoor cultivation is favored, with misting recommended during the growing season to sustain desired humidity levels.

Fertilize: For yellow butterfly palm, apply balanced slow-release fertilizer quarterly for robust growth; high-nitrogen fertilizer supports foliage in spring and summer. Reduce fertilization in winter. Water yellow butterfly palm before feeding to prevent root burn, and use fertilizers sparingly to avoid harming roots.

Pruning: Yellow butterfly palm thrives with early spring pruning by removing dead or crowded fronds to enhance airflow and aesthetics. Trim near the stem without harming the trunk. Regular pruning supports healthy growth and deters pests, ensuring the plant remains vigorous and visually appealing.

Propagation: The ideal propagation time for yellow butterfly palm is Spring through sowing, with moderate difficulty. Signs of success include new shoots and healthy roots. Use well-draining soil and ensure warmth and humidity for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot 'yellow butterfly palm' every 1-2 years to support its dense canopy, ideally in spring with a container 2-3 inches larger. After repotting, keep soil evenly moist and provide partial shade. Avoid compacting the soil to allow root respiration during acclimatization.

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