Why will I love it?
The Hawaiian palm is a houseplant like no other, with its thick, succulent stem and a rosette of glossy green leaves. Despite its name, it’s not a palm at all. This prehistoric-looking plant, known as Ālula in Hawaii, is a fascinating addition to any home.
Light or shade?
It is happiest in bright, indirect light.
Where should I put it?
Place in a bright, warm spot near a south-facing window.
How do I keep it alive?
Water it thoroughly once the top inch of soil has dried out. It enjoys moderate humidity, so misting the leaves will help keep it happy. Using well-draining soil, such as a succulent and cactus mix, and a pot with a drainage hole, helps prevent root rot. During winter, you can reduce the watering as the plant enters a dormant phase. Keep it in a warm environment, ideally 15-27C.
Did you know?
The Hawaiian palm, whose botanical name is Brighamia insignis, has been extinct in the wild since 2019-20. It once grew in abundance on the cliffs of Kauai, where a now-extinct species of hawk moth pollinated it. Today, its survival depends on humans, making each plant grown in a home an essential part of its conservation.
