Bamboo palm

(Chamaedorea erumpens)

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Clustered, non branching stems with bushy and arching fronds.

FOLIAGE COLORS:

Green

CONTAINER:

Large container, small planter (seedlings are used in dish gardens).

LIGHT:

Medium. East or west window, about one thousand footcandles.

WATER:

Frequent. Water thoroughly, keep soil evenly moist to touch (not saturated). Don't let sit in water.

TEMPERATURE:

Cool, medium, warm. Nights 10 degrees cooler than days.

HUMIDITY:

Average

FERTILIZER:

Every 4 months

SOIL MIX:

1 part sterilized garden loam, 1 part clean coarse sand or Perlite, and 1/2 to 1 part sphagnum peat moss.

PROPOGATION:

Division

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely, healthy plant free from insect and disease damage. New leaf growth is desirable. Avoid those with yellow or brown leaf margins, wilted or water soaked leaves.

CARE:

Moderate. Lives well under average home conditions. Attractive with moderate maintenance.

PROBLEMS:

Root rot: Provide adequate drainage. Do not let plant sit in water.

COMMENTS:

Seedlings are often used in dish gardens. Does well in tight corners. Do not place in full sun.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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