What we stand for
Rare and unique collection Sustainably and ethically grown Personal advice and support Fast and secure delivery
About the Rhapis excelsa variegata - L
Rhapis excelsa 'Variegata'Rhapis excelsa 'Variegata', commonly known as the Variegated Lady Palm, is a rare and highly prized ornamental palm native to East Asia. This cultivar of Rhapis excelsa is distinguished by its striking foliage marked with longitudinal stripes of cream, yellow, or white against a deep green background. Because of its elegant appearance and unusual leaf patterns, it is widely regarded as a collector’s plant.
The cultivation of variegated Rhapis has a long history in Japan where many distinctive cultivars have been selected over centuries. Due to the extremely slow growth rate and the difficulty of maintaining stable variegation, many forms remain rare and highly valuable. The palm forms dense clumps of slender canes and is often grown as an ornamental indoor plant or in sheltered gardens in warm climates.
Characteristics
- Growth habit: forms dense clumps of multiple upright canes emerging from the same root system.
- Height: usually grows between 1 and 3 metres tall, although some dwarf cultivars remain smaller.
- Stems: slender bamboo-like canes covered in dark brown fibrous leaf sheaths.
- Leaves: fan-shaped leaves divided into several narrow segments.
- Leaf colour: distinctive longitudinal stripes of cream, yellow or white running along the leaf segments.
- Variation: numerous named cultivars exist, particularly from Japan, each with unique variegation patterns.
- Growth rate: extremely slow growing and gradually forms a compact clump.
- Light: grows best in bright indirect light or partial shade since direct sun can damage the variegated leaves.
- Water: prefers evenly moist soil but should not remain waterlogged.
- Soil: thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
- Humidity: moderate to high humidity supports healthy foliage growth.
- Temperature: grows best in warm conditions but can tolerate mild cool temperatures.
- Fertilization: use balanced fertilizer carefully because excessive nitrogen may reduce the variegation.
- Pruning: remove only old or damaged leaves to maintain a healthy appearance.
All specifications
English name
Variegated Lady Palm
Size
L
Location
Partial shade
Water requirements
Water moderately
Fertilization
Moderate fertilization (± 2 times per year)
Evergreen
Yes
Show moreShow less
Flowering
No flowering
Fragrant
Non-fragrant
Edible
No
Fruit
No fruit
Ideal growth temperature
Between 20°C / 25°C
Minimum temperature
Protect from 10°C
Preferred humidity
Average humidity
Reviews
No reviews yet
Add review