rhapis

( RAY - piss )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of palm, commonly called Lady Palm, needs some shade to grow well (or bright indirect light indoors), and regular water. These palms are native to China and form clumps of dark green foliage. Trunks are clothed in fibrous leaf sheaths. These make great indoor plants, and some forms (especially variegated ones) are highly sought-after collectors' items. They are known for being great for removing toxins in air.

rhapis Species and Varietals

The genus Rhapis is a member of the plant family Arecaceae and includes 10 distinct species. The best growing zones for Rhapis vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Rhapis excelsa (Lady Palm, Broadleaf Lady Palm, Bamboo Palm)
This species does best in zones 12-17, 19-24, H1 and H2, and also make wonderful houseplants. They are hardy down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and reach 5-12 feet tall and just as wide. This species is native to northern Vietnam and southern China.

Rhapis gracilis (Slender Bamboo Palm)
This species is native to southern parts of China, and produces stems that are only 10 mm in diameter. Fruits are round, and foliage is fan-like and green.

Rhapis humilis (Rattan Palm, Slender Lady Palm)
This species is best in zones 16,m 17, 20-24, H1 and H2 or indoors. These palms are hardy down to 22 degrees Fahrenheit, and have tall, slender stems.

​Rhapis multifida (Finger Palm)
This species of Lady Palm does best in zones 20-24, H! and H2 or indoors, and is hardy to 28 degrees Fahrenheit. It reaches 6-8 feet tall and 3 feet wide.

Caring for and pruning rhapis Trees

Lady Palms, when grown indoors, need regular feedings during spring and summertime; apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during these seasons.

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

Wikipedia: Rhapis
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 555, Rhapis
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