Singapore Licuala Grande
It likes the shade
This is one of the few tropical palms that’s happier in the shade. Place it a few feet away from a window and out of the direct rays of the sun. If its leaves start to turn crispy brown, it's probably getting too much sun.
It likes its soil moist but not soggy
The best way to water it is to give it a generous watering until water runs out of the drainage hole of the pot. Pour water slowly over the central stem so it nourishes the root ball. Discard any drained water because the plant doesn't like wet feet, and this can cause root rot. Allow the top layer of the soil to dry out between waterings to make sure it does not get overwatered.
Poke your finger into the soil to test its moisture level. If the top few inches of the soil are dry to the touch, then it is safe to proceed with watering, but if you can feel moisture, then you should wait before watering the plant again. The aim is to keep the lower level of soil moist but not soggy.It’s a bit of experimenting to get to the right balance but don’t worry, you’ll get it after a bit of trial and error.
Start with roughly 3 times a week. More in the hot, summer months, less in the monsoon and cooler seasons.
Spa day, once a month.
1. Trim off brown leaves snipping closely to the central stem.
2. Scrape off any white mould on top of the soil. It’s just harmless fungi that lives in the soil. Lightly dust the soil with ground cinnamon.
3. Poke holes in the soil with a chopstick to aerate it and and give your plant a bit of extra breathing room. Sprinkle a tablespoon of vitamins in the soil and massage in.
4. Shine its leaves with a damp cloth, gently removing any dust. Front and back. This not only makes your plant look nicer but helps it to soak in light more easily too.
5. Spin it around to make sure its leaves are sunned evenly as it tends to grow towards sunlight.
6. Clean your cork mat with soap and water or white vinegar.
Mist its leaves
Spritz its broad leaves as an occasional treat. It loves that.
Common questions
Why are its leaves browning?
Singapore Licuala Grandis palms are very sensitive to light. If you find its leaves browning, move the plant to a cooler, shadier spot. It could also be over-watering so if the position change doesn’t help cut your watering down a little.
What is the white fungus taking over my Singapore Licuala Grande?
In the colder months it’s very common for a white substance to aggressively take over the stems and leaves for indoor palms. It may look like fungus but in fact it’s a pest called Mealy Bugs. Remove it manually with a moist cloth and spray insecticide once a week for three months.