The waxy stems of the dramatic areca palm or yellow palm grow in clusters, producing yellowish green fronds that are first upright, then arching over as the feathery green leaflets unfurl. Mature fronds can be up to 6½ ft. (2 m) long, with up to 60 leaflets (pinnae) on either side of the midrib (rachis). Growth is relatively slow, with only about 8 in. (20 cm) added each year.

The remains of old fronds leave the stem marked Like a bamboo cane. This plant needs some space, but gives an instant rain forest, effect in a warm conservatory or sunroom. It originates from the Indian Ocean islands, such as Madagascar, Comoros, and Pemba. Size Height to 5 ft. (1.5 m) in about 10 years.

Light: Indirect sunlight.

Temperature: Normal room.

Moisture: Keep thoroughly moist.

Feeding: Standard liquid fertilizer every two weeks from spring to fall.

Propagation: Remove suckers in spring, ideally about 1 ft. (30 cm) long, with plenty of roots.

Special needs: Reduce watering to a bare minimum if the temperature falls below 55°F (12°C).