Chamaedorea elegans
FAMILY NAME Arecaceae
CHARACTERISTICS Evergreen pinnate leaves up to 60cm (24in) long with up to 40 linear leaflets
HABITAT Rainforests
DISTRIBUTION Mexico and Central America
FLOWERS AND FRUIT Some produce clusters of yellow and cream flowers, then cream-coloured fruit, which turn black when fully ripe
This ornamental palm (formerly Neanthe bella) with its elegant stems and appearance is popular with florists. They use its stunning fronds in displays and decorations because, once cut, they last up to 40 days. A favourite houseplant since Victorian times, the Parlour Palm is adaptable and can grow in low light and humidity. It takes many years for it to fully mature in a tropical environment, but it will grow to a height of around 3 metres (10 feet).