Curly Palm

Howea belmoreana is a slow-growing evergreen palm from Lord Howe Island, recognized by its arching fronds and recurved leaflets. The Royal Horticultural Society gives a mature garden range of 4–8 m tall and 2.5–4 m wide; North Carolina State notes that indoor plants may take many years to reach about 10 ft. [North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/howea-belmoreana/) [Royal Horticultural Society](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/8844/howea-belmoreana/details) ## Form and placement A single ringed trunk carries pinnate leaves, giving this palm a sculptural, architectural profile suited to a container, sheltered patio, or greenhouse. NC State describes it as smaller and slower-growing than the related Kentia palm. Male flowers are pale brown and female flowers green; both appear in summer according to the RHS. ## Growing conditions Use bright indirect light indoors or partial shade outdoors; NC State warns that strong full sun can damage the foliage. A fast-draining mix is important. The RHS lists loam or sand and moist but well-drained conditions, while NC State advises allowing a potted plant to dry somewhat between waterings rather than leaving its roots soggy. ## Care and handling Growth is slow, so repot only when the roots have filled the container and handle them gently. Cold drafts and temperatures below 28°F can damage leaves. Check indoor plants for scale, mealybugs, and spider mites. [North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/howea-belmoreana/) ## Maintenance Keep the mix free-draining and avoid water standing around the roots; remove only damaged fronds.