Rhapis excelsa
 
Common Names Lady Palm, Fan Tufted Palm
 
Zones 9–11
 
A refined, clumping fan palm native to the forest understory of southern China and Taiwan, Rhapis excelsa is prized for its glossy foliage, bamboo-like stems, and exceptional adaptability to low light and indoor conditions. It forms dense clusters of upright canes, each topped with fan-shaped leaves divided into narrow, ribbed segments. Though flowering is rare indoors, this palm is celebrated for its air-purifying qualities and architectural elegance.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Clumping; rhizomatous; slow-growing
Height: 4–6 ft (1.2–1.8 m) indoors; up to 15 ft (4.5 m) outdoors
Trunk: Slender; covered in brown fiber that sheds with age, revealing bamboo-like stems
Leaves: Palmate; glossy dark green; divided into 5–10 narrow lobes; leaf tips truncate or shredded
Inflorescence: Rare indoors; small yellow flowers in panicles; may produce small round fruit outdoors
Ecology: Native to shaded limestone forest floors; thrives in dappled light and high humidity
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light to deep shade; avoid direct sun indoors
Watering: Moderate; water when top inch of soil is dry (summer), top 2 inches (winter)
Soil: Well-drained potting mix; palm or African violet mix preferred
Temperature: 60–80°F (16–27°C); avoid exposure below 35°F (2°C)
Humidity: Moderate to high; prefers 50%+ indoors
Propagation: By rhizome division; slow to establish
Tolerance: Drafts, low light, and indoor conditions; sensitive to overwatering and cold
 
Landscape Use Ideal for interiorscapes, shaded patios, and subtropical foundation plantings. Pairs well with Chamaedorea elegans, Aspidistra elatior, and Ficus lyrata.