Bamboo palm is a delight for the eyes—see our tips for growing and caring for it
Thanks to its impressive size, the bamboo palm is truly a feast for the eyes. Check out these simple instructions and learn how to care for your bamboo palm and help it thrive!
The bamboo palm (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens) became famous thanks to NASA’s research. In their study, fifty plants were tested and compared for their air-purifying ability, ease of care, and capacity to increase humidity. Bamboo palm came out on top in all these categories. It also makes for a striking houseplant you can admire for a long time!
Bamboo palm: growing and care
Light conditions
Bamboo palm thrives in a bright spot as long as it doesn’t get direct, scorching sunlight. It can handle sunlight in the morning or evening, if it’s by an east- or west-facing window. This way, it receives the right amount of diffused light.
Temperature
Bamboo does well in normal room temperature year-round. Drafts or an open window in winter are not ideal for the plant.
Bamboo palm watering and fertilizing
In its native regions, the bamboo palm lives in tropical and humid conditions. That’s why it’s important to prevent it from staying dry for too long.
Bamboo palm needs regular watering from spring to late summer, letting only the topsoil dry out between waterings. An excellent option is to plant it in a self-watering pot so the watering intervals can be extended thanks to the water reservoir. The soil should not be soaking wet or bone-dry for too long. During the plant’s resting period in winter, you can reduce watering frequency.
If leaf tips begin to brown, you’ve probably watered the plant too inconsistently and let the soil dry out too much. If this happens, shorten your watering intervals.
In summer, you can try watering the plant with rainwater if you’re able to collect it outside.
Fertilize your bamboo palm every few weeks, all year round.
Other bamboo palm care
The plant enjoys misting, especially during winter, as dry indoor air can attract pests. To help bamboo palm thrive in winter conditions, place the pot on a shallow tray layered with decorative stones. Pour water onto the stones. The water will evaporate and provide the plant with extra humidity.
Bamboo palm grows quickly, so it may need repotting once a year. Carefully remove the plant from its container and move it into a pot that’s a few inches larger. Use potting soil designed for houseplants. If you’re growing your bamboo palm in a self-watering container, use a permanent potting mix.
