Chamaedorea cataractarum
 
Common Names Cat Palm, Cascade Palm, Cataract Palm, Mexican Hat Palm
 
Zones 9B–11
 
A trunkless, clumping palm native to the wet forests of southern Mexico and Central America, Chamaedorea cataractarum is one of the few rheophytic palms—adapted to grow in or near flowing water. Its flexible leaflets and creeping stems allow it to withstand seasonal flooding, making it ideal for streamside plantings and shaded tropical gardens.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Clumping; trunkless; fountain-like form
Height: Up to 6 ft (1.8 m) outdoors; 3–4 ft (0.9–1.2 m) indoors
Spread: Dense clumps up to 8 ft (2.4 m) wide over time
Leaves: Glossy, dark green; pinnate; arching fronds with narrow, lance-shaped leaflets
Stems: Slender, cane-like; emerge directly from base; creep horizontally over time
Inflorescence: Small, cream-colored flowers in panicles; rarely blooms indoors
Fruit: Tiny round drupes; not typically ornamental
Ecology: Found along streams and cataracts; alt. 300–1,000 m; often on limestone substrates
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright, indirect light; tolerates part shade outdoors
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist; avoid drying out
Soil: Well-draining; tolerates limestone-rich mixes
Temperature: Ideal range 70–80°F (21–27°C); protect below 50°F
Humidity: High; sensitive to dry indoor air—mist regularly
Propagation: By division or seed; slow to establish
Tolerance: Moderate cold tolerance; susceptible to spider mites indoors
 
Landscape Use Excellent for shaded tropical gardens, streamside plantings, and indoor containers. Works well as a hedge or mass planting in humid climates. Pairs beautifully with ferns, Calathea, and other moisture-loving understory plants.