Bella, molto bella. The Parlor Palm's little yet wholesomely lush, architectural fronds dazzle as they arch ever so gracefully outward. An ancient Greek gift thought to be beautifully low-growing and elegant.
Provenance
In Victorian-era England, the Neanthe Bella Palm or Parlor Palm was associated with refinement and world travel. The Parlor Palm was one of few plants resilient enough to survive dim lighting, drafty windows, and heavy coal smoke heating the carefully decorated, 19th-century drawing rooms where hosts and guests retreated to after dinner.
Victorian-era guests understood the societal significance and enduring beauty of the Parlor Palm, while being entertained with post-dinner tea and musical performances—often by the unmarried daughters of the house. The social grace and courtship in playing music to showcase the hosting family’s patience, elegance, and discipline, was evocative of the Victorian essence in a most tender vignette alongside the Parlor Palm.
Peer into the authentic Victorian style of drawing rooms the Parlor Palm once called home:
An Interior (c. 1837–1840), a watercolor by Mary Ellen Best (1809–1891), currently preserved at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City.
Archival Note: The historical quirks, traditional cultural heritage, and botanical profiling for this specific specimen are currently being prepared by our curator. Micro-dossiers are published gradually as our living gallery expands. We heartily invite you to check back soon and discover its fuller story.
Care
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The Light: Bright, indirect sunlight.
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The Water: When dry to a depth of two inches, water thoroughly until there is drainage from the base. Please avoid overwatering.
- The Cow Pot: A zero-waste, fully biodegradable planter molded from dehydrated, odorless dairy manure. Rather than disturbing the delicate root system by unpotting, simply settle the entire organic vessel directly into a five- or six-inch permanent planter. This seamlessly bypasses transplant shock while allowing the expanding roots to naturally digest the vessel's organic nitrogen.
Pet Safety
ASPCA listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Packaging
An assortment of cardboard inserts, mailers, and outer boxes, as well as paper sleeves and rubber bands depending on a plant's needs. Heat packs or insulated sleeves are available when temperatures drop:
Shipping and Delivery
Please add the required
Winter Shipping Protection when temperatures are at or below 50°F in the delivery area. Thank you.