Arecaceae
African oil palm: Edible Plant
Elaeis guineensis
Requires high light levels, constant humidity, and warm temperatures to thrive. Avoid letting the potting mix dry out completely.
Every 7 days
Bright indirect
18° - 32°C
60% - 90%
Categories
What is African oil palm?
African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is a medium-care plant from the Arecaceae family. The African oil palm is a large, single-stemmed palm with a robust trunk and pinnate fronds that can reach several meters in length. While primarily cultivated for industrial oil production, it is also used as a majestic ornamental plant in tropical climates or as an indoor plant when young.
African oil palm grows up to 20.0m, spread of 600cm, watering every 7 days, 18°C – 32°C, 60–90% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 14 days.
How to Care for African oil palm?
TLDR: African oil palm needs Bright indirect, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between 18-32°C with 60-90% humidity.
How Often Should You Water African oil palm?
Water thoroughly as soon as the soil surface begins to dry. Maintain high humidity levels through regular misting.
How Much Light Does African oil palm Need?
Place near a south-facing window. It needs plenty of bright indirect light, or even direct sunlight once acclimated.
What Is the Best Soil for African oil palm?
Use a mix rich in organic matter but well-draining, such as a blend of potting soil, sand, and compost.
What Pot Should You Use for African oil palm?
A deep, heavy terracotta pot to stabilize the plant and allow for proper root aeration.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Misting
Every 2 days
Rotate
Every 15 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is African oil palm and Where Does It Come From?
The African oil palm is a large, single-stemmed palm with a robust trunk and pinnate fronds that can reach several meters in length. While primarily cultivated for industrial oil production, it is also used as a majestic ornamental plant in tropical climates or as an indoor plant when young.
How to Propagate African oil palm?
Seed sowing
- Patience is essential as germination is very slow.
- The use of a heating mat is highly recommended.
- 1 Scarification and soaking
Lightly rub the hard shell and soak the seeds in warm water for 5 days, changing the water daily.
- 2 Constant heat
Place the seeds in a moist peat mix at a constant temperature of 95°F (35°C).
- 3 Transplanting
Once the first leaf appears, carefully transfer to an individual pot rich in nutrients.
Materials needed:
How Big Does African oil palm Grow?
TLDR: African oil palm can reach up to 20.0m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
20.0m
Spread
6.0m
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Edible
Can be consumed
Medicinal Uses
- Traditional use of roots for headaches
- Antioxidant properties of crude oil
Culinary Uses
- Palm oil extracted from the pulp
- Palm kernel oil extracted from the seed
- Palm wine made from the sap
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
A symbol of fertility and sustenance in many West African cultures.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
