Howea forsteriana is part of the Arecaceae family and its native range is Lord Howe Island. Leaves are pinnate, leaflets are finger-like, dark green on the upperside and lighter green on the underside.
Genus is named after Lord Howe Island where these palms are native to. Specific epithet honors New South Wales Senator Henry William Forster, who was a key in obtaining woman suffrage for Australia.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. South or west-facing windows with a curtain to prevent scorching.
Water: Allow the top 3 inches of potting mix to dry out, pour water slowly over the top and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes.
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 18-24˚C.
Humidity: Howea forsteriana would prefer higher humidity (60% and above) but adapt well to average home humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Howea forsteriana are non-toxic.