Curly palm (Howea belmoreana)

Curly palm

Also known as: Sentry palm

Curly palm (Howea belmoreana) is a slow-growing palm tree that will grow to 3 m tall in a container or garden and up to 11 m tall in the wild. Best when grown in a humid climate it has difficulty living indoors. This evergreen tropical tree has arching fronds with individual leaves that curl under. It blooms from fall to winter with cream-colored flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Curly palm (Howea belmoreana)

Palms, bullanocks, and allies

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8 m

Plant Height

4 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 mm to 1 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Curly palm

Distribution of Curly palm

Distribution Map

Curly palm is endemic to a group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean. It thrives in its native habitat, a region known for its subtropical climate. Beyond its natural range, curly palm has also been introduced to areas characterized by a similar climate within the southern hemisphere, notably the eastern parts of the Australian continent.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Curly palm

Pinnate, arching fronds up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) long.

Ovoid, dark red to reddish-brown fruit, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm).

Graceful, arching leaves forming a half circle, up to 10 feet (3 meters) long.

Ringed, green trunk reaching 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.

Drooping, unisexual cream flowers in spikes up to 3 feet (91 cm) long.

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Care Guide for Curly palm

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from humid oceanic islands, curly palm prefers moderate watering, ideally every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly. Overwatering risks root rot, while under-watering may cause leaf tip browning. Typically grown indoors, curly palm thrives in well-draining containers for optimal moisture balance.

Fertilize: For optimal health, curly palm needs high-nitrogen fertilizer monthly in spring and summer, using 1-2 teaspoons of a slow-release or diluted liquid formula for 5-6 inch pots. During fall and winter, feed every other month, and flush soil bi-annually to prevent salt buildup. Juvenile curly palm requires gentler doses.

Pruning: Curly palm showcases elegant, arching fronds suitable for various environments. Early spring is the ideal time for pruning to eliminate dead fronds, promoting healthy growth and aesthetics. Use clean, sharp tools for effective pruning, minimizing damage and disease risk.

Propagation: Curly palm is propagated by sowing seeds in well-draining soil within a warm, humid space. Clean seeds to deter fungal infections. Seedlings require bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. Transplant carefully when size permits, ensuring no harm to delicate roots.

Repotting: The curly palm is an upright, non-climbing plant that requires repotting every 1-2 years to avoid root-binding. Spring is ideal for repotting into a larger, well-draining container. Consistent moisture is crucial, while avoiding overwatering ensures resilient growth for the curly palm.

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Images of Curly palm

Distribution of Curly palm

Quickly Identify Curly palm

Care Guide for Curly palm

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