Pinnate Palm, Queen Palm
chamaedorea tepejilote
Also known as: ["Pinnate Palm","Queen Palm"]
Overview
A graceful, slender palm with pinnate leaves, native to Central and South America.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Arecales |
| Family: | Arecaceae |
| Genus: | Chamaedorea |
| Botanical Name: | Chamaedorea tepejilote |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.
Soil
well-draining, rich in organic matter, slightly acidic
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer), none in winter
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in winter; apply fertilizer to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and bright indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use a healthy, non-flowering stem; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base with clean, sharp tools; remove yellow or brown leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health; shape as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged fronds; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); brown leaf tips (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; roots become susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; avoid cold drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChamaedorea tepejilote is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicChamaedorea tepejilote is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicChamaedorea tepejilote is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Chamaedorea tepejilote?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week.
Q: Does this palm require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Q: Is Chamaedorea tepejilote toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Arecaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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