The areca palm is one of the best-known indoor plants. Its feathery green fronds sway lightly and bring a calm, tropical feel to a living room, bedroom or office. It grows as several stems from one pot, so it looks full from every side.

Why an areca palm?

• Soft fronds that fill a corner and soften bare walls.
• Adapts to bright indoor spots without direct sun.
• Safe for cats and dogs (ASPCA).
• Two sizes: a medium plant for corners, and a large palm to anchor a room.

Where to put it

A bright spot near a window, one to two metres back from it, away from direct midday sun. It suits living rooms, indoor entrances, office corners and larger bedrooms. Keep it out of the direct blast of the air conditioner.

Care in the Saudi climate

• Light: bright, indirect light; in low light it survives but grows more slowly.
• Water: when the top 2–3 cm of soil are dry, and empty the saucer; soggy soil damages the roots.
• Air: dry AC air can cause brown tips; keep it away from vents and check leaf undersides for spider mites.
• Water quality: it's sensitive to fluoride and salts; use filtered water or water left out overnight, and flush the soil every few months.
• Soil and feeding: light, well-drained potting mix, and a light balanced feed in spring and summer.
• Temperature: normal room temperature; it doesn't tolerate long cold spells.

Sizes

• 50–60 cm: for corners, beside the sofa and in offices.
• 150–160 cm: a large floor palm for living rooms and wide entrances.