This article will dive into the similarities and differences between these two plants. Here’s everything you need to know about the majesty palm vs. kentia palm.
Comparing Kentia Palm vs. Majesty Palm
Kentia Palm vs. Majesty Palm: Key Differences
Kentia palms and majesty palms are quite similar in appearance, especially in their youth. However, there are key differences in their temperament and care requirements. Kentia palms are considered a much more accessible, easy indoor plant than majesty palms. Let’s explore some of the key differences in detail.
Classification
Kentia palms and majesty palms are both members of the Arecaceae family — the palm family. Kentia palms are a member of the Howea genus, named for their endemic origin, Lord Howe Island. Howea belmoreana, the sentry palm, is the only other member of this genus. Majesty palms are a member of the Ravenea genus. The 20 palms in this genus are native to Madagascar and the Comoros Islands in Africa. Majesty palms are the only member of the Ravenea grown and cultivated for indoor use.
Kentia Palm vs. Majesty Palm: Origin
Lord Howe Island is a small island in the Tasman Sea, off the East coast of Australia. Kentia palm cultivation is the island’s major economic industry. This unique climate boasts tropical temperatures with cooler ocean currents, which contributes to the plant’s hardiness. Madagascar and the Comoros Islands are off the Southeast coast of Africa. This tropical, maritime climate provides the sun and moisture needed for majesty palms to thrive, though wild Ravenea palms are expected to be extinct by the end of the century due to deforestation and water pollution.
Description
Majesty palms and kentia palms are similar at a glance, as most indoor majesty palms are young. The shape, sizing, and growth patterns are similar in youth. However, majesty palm leaves are slightly thinner and sharper than kentia palm leaves. The difference is apparent in mature outdoor kentia and majesty palms.
Kentia Palm vs. Majesty Palm: Uses
The kentia palm and majesty palm are both popular indoor plants. However, the kentia palm is a better option for indoor gardeners. The resilient nature of the kentia palm makes it easy to care for, whereas the majesty palm is high-maintenance. The kentia palm can also be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9–11.
Kentia Palm vs. Majesty Palm: Growth Tips
Both the kentia palm and majesty palm require well-draining, loamy soil when grown indoors. The majesty palm requires continuous hydration and misting. The kentia palm does well with the same treatment but won’t suffer if the soil starts to dry out. Place your majesty palm in a brightly lit window away from cold drafts. The kentia palm prefers indirect sunlight but won’t suffer in a bright area. The approach to outdoor planting is slightly different. Majesty palms need a bit of shade from the direct, overhead sunlight. Plant this palm near taller trees to provide a break during the day, otherwise, the leaves will turn yellow and wither. Plant this tree at the bottom of a slope for continuous root moisture. Kentia palms don’t do as well outside. They require a lot of shade throughout the day and well-draining soil. Plant kentia palms at the top of a slope for continuous drainage.
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