Lady Palm (Rhapis)

Rhapis is a genus of small evergreen palms that form clumps of slender stems and bear leaves divided into narrow, linear or oblong segments. The Royal Horticultural Society describes small panicles of yellow flowers followed by small oval fruits; species and cultivated forms can differ in mature size and growing requirements. [The RHS profile for Rhapis](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14466/rhapis-excelsa/details) gives the genus description and species-specific guidance for R. excelsa. ## Landscape Use Rhapis palms are architectural foliage plants suited to sheltered courtyard or container displays when the selected species and local climate permit. The familiar lady palm is Rhapis excelsa, but a genus-level name does not establish that this particular record is that species. ## Growing Conditions For R. excelsa, the RHS recommends partial shade and well-drained loam; North Carolina State Extension describes it as a shade-tolerant indoor and patio plant. These are useful examples, not universal care instructions for every species in the genus. ## Maintenance Follow care guidance for the identified species and growing environment. The RHS lists no routine pruning for R. excelsa; remove only damaged or dead foliage when needed.