Fishtail Palm
Caryota mitis
Fishtail Palm is a clumping tropical with jagged leaflets that look like fish tail fins. Native to Southeast Asia, it fills bright rooms and hallways with bipinnate fronds on multiple stems. Steady moisture and high humidity keep the fronds from browning.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Warning
Fishtail palms contain calcium oxalate crystals. While the leaves are generally handled safely, the berries (rarely seen indoors) and sap can cause severe skin irritation and are toxic if ingested by pets or humans.
Full care guide
Fishtail Palm Care
Grow Caryota mitis (Fishtail Palm) with bright indirect light, even moisture, high humidity, and clean water to protect those jagged leaflets from tip burn.
Read the guideCare Notes
Full guide →Light
Bright, indirect light is best. Try an east window or a few feet back from a south window. Direct afternoon sun can burn the fronds.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist without waterlogging. Water when the top inch feels dry. Filtered or distilled water can reduce brown tips from tap-water chemicals.
Soil
Use a well-draining, peat-based mix with perlite in a planter with drainage holes.
Humidity & Temperature
Aim for 50% humidity or higher with a humidifier or pebble tray. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C), away from cold drafts and heating vents.
Common Issues
Spider mites thrive in dry indoor air. Wipe fronds with a damp cloth to remove dust and discourage pests. Brown tips often mean dry air or mineral-heavy water.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Liquid palm fertilizer with micronutrients like manganese
Soil
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
6-10 feet (indoors)
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Division of suckers (offsets) or by seed.
Common Varieties
Caryota mitis (Clumping Fishtail Palm)
Multiple stems with green bipinnate fronds made of jagged triangular leaflets.
Caryota urens (Wine Palm)
A solitary trunk with large dark green bipinnate fronds and jagged triangular leaflets.