How to Grow and Care for Majesty Palm

Majesty palm (Ravenea rivularis) is a tropical palm tree that can add a lush and exotic touch to any indoor or outdoor space. Here are some basic facts about this plant:

Common Name	Majesty palm
Botanical Name	Ravenea rivularis [1]
Plant Type	Evergreen palm tree
Sun Exposure	Bright indirect light indoors, partial to full sun outdoors
Mature Size	Up to 10 feet indoors, up to 40 feet outdoors
Soil pH	Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.0)
Soil Type	Well-drained, moist, and rich in organic matter
Flower Color	Creamy white (rarely blooms indoors)
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets

Majesty palm (Ravenea rivularis) is a tropical tree native to Madagascar that can grow up to 100 feet tall in its natural habitat. However, it is mostly grown as an indoor plant in containers, where it reaches a height of 10 feet or less. Majesty Palm has long, arching green fronds that look elegant. It requires bright indirect light, moist soil, and humid air to thrive indoors. There are no named cultivars of majesty palm, but some other types of palms look similar or have similar care requirements. Here are some of them:

• Kentia palm (Howea forsteriana): This palm has dark green, feather-like fronds that can grow up to 10 feet long. It is native to Lord Howe Island in Australia and can tolerate low light and dry air better than majesty palm.
• Areca palm (Dypsis lutescens): This palm has multiple stems that produce clusters of yellow-green fronds. It is native to Madagascar and grows well in bright indirect light and moist soil. It can also help purify the air indoors by removing toxins.
• Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans): This palm has slender stems and delicate, dark green fronds. It is native to Mexico and Central America and can grow in low light and dry conditions. It is one of the most popular palms for indoor use because of its small size and easy care.

The Majesty Palm is a hardy, tropical palm species that comes from Madagascar. With its tall, arching fronds that sprout upwards from the trunk before gracefully drooping at the ends, the Majesty Palm has an elegant, majestic appearance that gives the plant its name. Typically found along river banks in its native Madagascar, the Majesty Palm is a newcomer to the world of houseplants. However, with proper care, it can thrive as an attractive indoor plant, displaying its distinctive feather-like leaves and forming an impressive crown.

Temperature and Humidity

Between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, this plant can grow reasonably well. Although it may thrive at normal household humidity levels, it likes excessive humidity. Running a humidifier might make the plants happier in colder locations where the winter air can get quite dry. Additionally, regularly misting the plant will ensure it receives the humidity it needs. Low humidity can favor the growth of insect pests.

Soil

Use well-draining, nutrient-rich potting soil. A mix of equal parts peat, perlite [2], and compost works well.

Water

Majesty Palms prefer consistently moist soil but not waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Reduce watering frequency in the winter months.

Fertilizer

Fertilize Majesty Palms during the growing season (spring and summer) using a slow-release granular palm fertilizer or a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, applied every 4-6 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the cooler months.

Light

Provide bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade for outdoor plants. Indoor plants should be placed near a bright window with filtered light.

Majesty palm (Ravenea rivularis) is a tropical plant that can thrive indoors as well as outdoors. It has graceful, feathery fronds and a slender trunk that makes it an elegant addition to any space. However, growing majesty palm requires some special care and attention to keep it healthy and happy. Here are some tips on how to grow majesty palm successfully.

• Choose the right location. Majesty palm prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity. Avoid placing it near windows that receive direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. Also, avoid drafty areas or air vents that can dry out the plant. A humidifier or a pebble tray filled with water can help increase the moisture level around the plant.
• Water regularly. Majesty palm likes moist but not soggy soil. Check the soil every few days and water when the top inch feels dry to the touch. Use lukewarm water and water thoroughly until the excess drains out of the bottom of the pot. Do not let the plant sit in water, as this can cause root rot.
• Fertilize monthly. Majesty palm needs a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the label directions and dilute the fertilizer to half-strength. Do not fertilize in winter, when the plant is dormant.
• Repot as needed. Majesty palm can grow up to 10 feet tall indoors, so it may need a larger pot every year or two. Choose a pot that is one or two sizes bigger than the current one, with drainage holes at the bottom. Use a well-draining potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and sand. Gently loosen the root ball and place it in the new pot, filling in with fresh soil. Water well and place in a bright spot.
• Prune occasionally. Majesty palm does not need much pruning, except for removing dead or damaged fronds. Use sharp scissors or pruners and cut close to the trunk. Do not cut off green fronds, as this can weaken the plant and reduce its growth.

Step 1. Choose the right pot

Select a pot with drainage holes that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. Ensure it is deep enough to accommodate the palm's root ball.

Step 2. Prepare the pot

Place a layer of well-draining potting mix at the bottom of the new pot.

Step 3. Remove the palm

Gently remove the Majesty Palm from its current pot by carefully loosening the soil around the edges and tipping the pot to ease the plant out. Be cautious not to damage the roots.

Step 4. Position the palm

Place the palm in the new pot, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil line. Fill in around the root ball with additional potting mix, gently firming the soil as you go.

Step 5. Water

Water the Majesty Palm thoroughly after repotting to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

Step 6. Monitor

Keep an eye on your repotted Majesty Palm, and adjust your care routine accordingly. It may require more frequent watering initially as it acclimates to its new environment. Repotting should be done every 2-3 years or when the palm becomes root-bound. Signs of this include roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant lifting out of its pot.

Inspect your Majesty Palm regularly for pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Treat with insecticidal soap [3] or neem oil if needed.

Is majesty palm easy to care for?

The majestic palm is known for having unpredictable behavior. The plant's satisfaction with the heat, light, and nourishment will determine how things turn out.

How quickly do majesty palms grow?

This palm tree requires infrequent repotting because it grows roughly one foot each year. The growth rate further slows after it reaches four to six feet.

What distinguishes the Majesty Palm from the Areca Palm?

Although the fronds of the two palms are similar in appearance, they differ somewhat. The fronds of an areca palm are more relaxed and floppy than those of a majesty palm, which has pointed fronds. Additionally, it's simpler to maintain an areca palm indoors.

SOURCES

The New York Garden works under restricted procurement guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies and studies conducted by academic organizations. Tertiary references should be avoided. For more information on how we ensure our material is correct and up to date, please visit our editorial policy.

1. Ravenea rivularis - True Green Nursery

2. Perlite - Agricultural Marketing Service

3. Insecticidal Soap - Agricultural Marketing Service