bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) indoors; can tolerate dappled shade. In hot outdoor climates, some afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch. Avoid full indoor sun against glass.Light

Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry. Keep consistently moist but never waterlogged. Good drainage is essential - root rot is the most common killer. Use a pot with drainage holes.Water

Moderate to high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby) (50-55% minimum). Brown leaf tips are the first sign of air that's too dry. A pebble tray, grouping plants together, or a cool-mist humidifier all help.Humidity

Thrives between 61-79°F (16-26°C). Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning, and heaters. Does not tolerate temperatures below 50°F (10°C).Temperature

moderateDifficulty

Fishtail Palm

Caryota mitis

Moderate

Caryota mitis is the palm that makes people stop and stare: its leaflets are jagged, fishtail-shaped wedges that look like they were cut with pinking shears, giving the whole plant a wildly textured, almost prehistoric silhouette. You get a multi-stemmed clumping palm that can hit 20-25 feet outdoors, though indoors it stays more manageable while still commanding attention. Keep it warm, humid, and away from anything cold and drafty and it will reward you with one of the most dramatic canopies in the palm family.

Care Guide

How to grow Fishtail Palm

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry.

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

61-79°F

Soil

Rich, well-draining potting mix.

Propagation

Division of basal suckers (offsets)

Common Problems

Spider mites and mealybugs are common pests.

Did You Know

Fun Facts

Caryota palms are the only palms in the world with bipinnate (doubly compound) leaves — every other palm has either simple or singly compound fronds, making the fishtail shape a genuinely unique botanical feature.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

The fruit (berries) are toxic to humans and animals due to calcium oxalate crystals and oxalic acid. Contact with crushed or broken fruit can cause severe skin irritation and chemical burns. The IVIS guide classifies the fruits as a notable hazard. Foliage is considered mildly unpleasant if ingested.

Sources

Caryota mitis Fishtail Palm - Gardenia.net (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
Caryota Species: Fishtail Palm - IVIS Guide to Poisonous Plants (opens in new tab)Reference
Caryota Species: Fishtail Palm — IVIS Guide to Poisonous Plants (opens in new tab)Reference
Caryota mitis Fishtail Palm — Gardenia.net (opens in new tab)Reference
Caryota mitis - NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (opens in new tab)University Extension
Caryota mitis — NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (opens in new tab)University Extension