Manila Palm (Veitchia merrillii)

Manila Palm

Veitchia merrillii

Its fronds arch like a green fountain, softening indoor spaces. Evergreen palm tree; common name: Manila Palm.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid harsh midday direct sun that can scorch fronds
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives at 18–27℃; protect from temperatures below 12℃ to avoid leaf browning and growth stunting
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Pinnate fronds, arching, bright green, up to 2 m long with narrow, pointed leaflets
  • Stem: Slender smooth gray trunk with prominent ring patterns from old leaf scars
  • Flower: Small creamy-white clustered inflorescences, borne beneath frond bases (rarely seen indoors)
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; check soil moisture every 5–7 days

Fertilization

Diluted balanced palm fertilizer every 4 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows to prevent salt buildup in soil

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Trim brown, dead frond tips with sharp, sterile shears to maintain appearance
  • Remove fully yellowed or brown fronds at the trunk base to improve airflow
  • Avoid cutting green fronds, as they provide essential nutrients to the palm
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental indoor/outdoor palm; tropical landscape focal plant