Arenga hookeriana, a unique fishtail palm, features deeply lobed leaves resembling a fish's tail. This slow-growing palm adds exotic texture to tropical gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light
50% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Can tolerate some shade.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in cooler months but avoid complete dryness.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average to warm
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Protect from frost and sudden temperature drops. Avoid placement near drafts.
Regular feeding during growth
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during spring and summer. Do not fertilize in fall or winter.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Pruning is generally not required for Arenga hookeriana unless dead or damaged leaves appear. Remove these by cutting them back to the trunk. Avoid excessive pruning, as it can stress the plant.
Focus on maintaining a natural shape.
Propagation is typically done through seeds, which can be slow to germinate. Alternatively, offsets or suckers that form at the base of the mature plant can be separated and planted.
Ensure the offsets have some roots attached before planting.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years or when they become root-bound. Mature plants can be left in their pots for longer periods. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Fishtail Palm (Arenga hookeriana)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Arecales |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Genus | Arenga |
| Species | Arenga hookeriana |
Similar in genus Arenga
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
