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Dypsis lutescens, Areca Palm

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie


Release Date: 2/16/2022

Reviewed At: 4/3/2025

DOI: 10.32473/edis-fr309-2010

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides an overview of the Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens), detailing its taxonomy, common names, and physical characteristics. Native to eastern Madagascar, this palm is endangered in its natural habitat but widely cultivated in Florida and the United States. It thrives in well-drained soils with ample water and can grow up to 35 feet tall. The article also discusses its horticultural applications, including its use as a landscape accent and natural fence, and offers care recommendations such as planting during the rainy season and regular fertilization to maintain its green color. Original publication date May 2010.

About this Publication

This document is FOR 247, one of a series of the School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date May 2010. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication.

About the Authors

Melissa H. Friedman, former biological scientist; Michael G. Andreu, associate professor of forest systems; Heather V. Quintana, former research assistant; and Mary McKenzie, former research assistant, School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences; UF/IFAS Extension, Gainesville, FL 32611.

How to Cite

Friedman, M. H., Andreu, M. G., & McKenzie, M. (2010). Dypsis lutescens, Areca Palm. EDIS, 2010(4). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fr309-2010

Authors

Melissa Friedman
Melissa Friedman
staff
University of Florida

research and extension writer; UF/IFAS Department of Environmental Horticulture, Center for Land Use Efficiency, Gainesville, FL

Michael Andreu
Michael Andreu
Specialist
University of Florida

professor, forest systems, UF/IFAS School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences

Heather Quintana
Heather Quintana
student
Mary McKenzie
Mary McKenzie
student

Publication #FOR 247

Dypsis lutescens