The Curly palm (Howea belmoreana), with its graceful arching fronds and lush, exotic vibe, is a favorite among houseplant lovers seeking a touch of the tropics indoors. Loved for its resilience and elegant appearance, the Curly palm thrives in low-light spaces and is notably easy to care for, making it a wonderful choice for beginners and busy plant parents alike.
Light Requirements
Curly palm prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can adapt to lower light conditions commonly found in apartments. Keep it away from harsh, direct sun, as this can scorch its delicate fronds. Ideally, place your Curly palm near a north or east-facing window, or several feet back from a bright, south-facing window.
Watering Schedule
Water your Curly palm when the top inch of soil feels dry—typically, this is about once a week. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so always check the soil before adding more water. Brown leaf tips may indicate dry air or underwatering, while yellowing leaves may point to too much water. A humidifier can help during dry winter months.
Humidity & Temperature
Curly palm enjoys average household humidity but thrives with occasional misting or added humidity. Keep your plant in temperatures between 60–80°F (16–27°C); it is sensitive to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, so avoid placing it near open windows or air conditioning units in winter.
Soil & Potting
Choose a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based soil with added perlite or sand to ensure good drainage. Repot your Curly palm every 2–3 years, or when you notice roots crowding the pot, to give its roots room to grow.
Fertilizing
Feed your Curly palm with a balanced, liquid houseplant fertilizer every month during spring and summer. Skip feeding in autumn and winter when growth slows.
Common Problems & Solutions
Common issues include yellowing leaves from overwatering, brown tips from low humidity, or occasional spider mites and scale insects. Prune away damaged fronds and increase humidity for brown tips. For pests, gently wipe leaves with soapy water or use an insecticidal soap. Always ensure good drainage.
Extra Tips
Group Curly palm with other humidity-loving plants (such as ferns or calatheas) for a mini indoor jungle and higher humidity. Its elegant fronds look beautiful in decorative pots and make a statement in living rooms and offices. Fun fact: Curly palm is closely related to the more common Kentia palm but has notably more arching and curled fronds!
