This small dioecious palm has a solitary short bamboo-like stem that is up to 40mm (1˝in) diameter and producing aerial roots at the nodes. The arching glossy green fronds form a compact crown and the small flowers appear during summer.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Chamaedorea elegans is naturally found in North America from southern Mexico to Guatemala up to an altitude of 1,500m (4500ft) in rain or cloud forests and has become very rare due to over harvesting by collectors. It prefers a well drained organic rich, moist soil in a semi shaded position with wind, frost and drought protection.

The Parlour Palm is grown for its elegant habit and is used as indoor specimen or in group planting's around water features for a tropical effect. It is also used as an understorey plant in tropical setting and establishes in 2 to 5 years. In cold regions it is grown in a glass house or in bright conservatories. ID 100

Chamaedorea(sha-mee-do-REE-ah) elegans(AY-le-gahnz)

Arecaceae(ar-ek-AY-see-ee)     
(Palmae)
Palm Family