Native to the east coast of Australia, but just as happy in our homes, the Kentia palm brings instant impact island vibes to any room. There's no need to worry though, despite it's impressive height and large, arching palm fronds, they're relatively slow growing, so won't hog all of the light in your living room.
On the subject of light, Big Ken - as we like to call him - enjoys lots of bright light, but not harsh direct sun. And the brighter the light, the more often he's likely to need a drink. Keep an eye on how dry his soil is by dipping your finger in to the second knuckle, and if it comes out dry, you'll know it's time for a tipple. Second to H2O, Big Ken loves a glug of liquid plant food. Add some to your watering can once or twice a month between April and October when he's in full growth mode, and you'll be rewarded with new and larger leaves.
The bigger it grows, the more space it'll need, so repot your Kentia palm into fresh free-draining jungle potting compost every two-to-three years.
Did you know?
Queen Victoria herself was such a big fan of the Kentia palm that she insisted they were placed around her coffin when she died.