Chamaedorea cataractarum

Cat Palm, Cascade Palm, Cataract Palm

A small clumping palm native to southern Mexico, often found growing alongside streams and waterfalls giving us the common names of Cataract or Cascade Palm. Best kept in a shaded position with high humidity.

It could be tried outdoors in the mildest parts of the country as it is said to tolerate a few degrees of frost.

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Origin: Mexico
Genus: Chamaedorea
Species / Cultivar: cataractarum
Common Name: Cat Palm, Cascade Palm, Cataract Palm

Plant Biography

A small clumping palm native to southern Mexico, often found growing alongside streams and waterfalls giving us the common names of Cataract or Cascade Palm.

The Cascade Palm grows naturally next to water and is often subject to seasonal flooding.

One of the lesser-known Chamaedorea palms, this is perhaps the third-hardiest in the genus following C. microspadix and C. radicalis.

Chamaedorea cataractarum
Light: Medium
This plant likes a spot further away from bright windows, but still lit by natural light.
Soil: Indoor Potting Mix
Enjoys moist well drained soil with composted organics and some drainage material.
Growth Rate: Medium
Expect to see moderate growth during growing season.
Water Requirement: Keep Topped Up
Keep the soil moist at all times, while avoiding roots to sit in a pool of water.
Humidity: High
Provide moist air via daily misting or trays of wet grit. Keep away from drafts and heaters.
Situation: Part Shade to Full Shade
Can enjoy several hours of direct sunlight, but also happy in full shade.
Eventual Height: 2m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 1.5m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Half Hardy
Will need protection from frosts in order to survive winter, eg. with fleece jacket.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

The Cat palm is best kept in very humid conditions. In its natural environment it will happily grow in areas susceptible to floods.

Make sure the soil stays moist at all times and regularly mist the leaves to prevent brown tips from forming.

Fertilise in spring and summer months with an organic (sea weed based) high nitrogen fertiliser.

Palm trivia

The Cataract Palm is a symbol of good luck in some cultures and is believed to bring prosperity and good health.