Chamaedorea stolonifera

*Chamaedorea stolonifera* is a small palm from Chiapas, Mexico, with underground runners that allow it to spread beyond the original clump. Its dark green, bifid leaves and colony-forming habit suit a shaded understory planting or a container where the runners can be managed. ## Form and spread The [Palm and Cycad Societies of Australia profile](https://pacsoa.org.au/wiki/index.php/Chamaedorea_stolonifera) describes slender canes around 1.5 m tall and clumps that can spread widely through stolons. [UF/IFAS Miami-Dade](https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/miami-dade/landscapes--gardening/palms-cycads--palm-like-plants-a-e/) calls it sparsely clumping and also notes its stolons. The reported colony spread varies, so provide room for expansion or contain the plant in a pot. ## Site and soil The species is associated with shady, moist rainforest and limestone soils in Mexico. UF/IFAS lists partial shade and notes drought tolerance, while the society profile describes moist habitat; provide even moisture during establishment but keep the soil well drained. Avoid strong, exposed sun. ## Garden use Use it as a low, spreading palm under larger plants in a warm, protected garden. Its runners make it more suitable for a managed group or ground-level planting than for a narrow formal bed. ## Maintenance Water during dry spells, particularly while establishing. Check the planting edge for advancing stolons, and divide or contain the clump if it extends beyond the intended area.