Caryota mitis is part of the Arecaceae family and its native range is SE. China to Indo-China and Malesia where it grows as a tree primarily in the wet tropical biome. Leaves are bi-pinnately compound and upright to spreading with arching tips. The leaflets (pinnules) have jagged or irregularly toothed ends; the appearance lends to the common name ‘Fishtail Palm’. Genus name comes from the Greek word karyon meaning ‘a nut’. The specific epithet means ‘unarmed’, this is in reference to the leaves lacking spines. 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. Receiving direct morning light would be good for Caryota mitis. Water: Allow the top half of the 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: 20-27˚C. Humidity: Caryota mitis benefit from 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. Caryota mitis is toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.
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