Majesty Palm

Majesty Palm Tree: Regal Greenery for Indoors & Patios  

Want to bring the lush, tropical feel of a resort into your home or garden—even in chilly Ontario? The Majesty Palm Tree (Ravenea rivularis) delivers rich, feathery fronds and a classic palm silhouette that works beautifully in containers for seasonal outdoor use and year-round indoor greenery. 

Origin & Overview 

Native to Madagascar, the Majesty Palm naturally grows near riverbanks—hence the name rivularis. While it can reach great heights in the wild, in Zones 5–7, it performs best as a potted tropical plant. Ideal for bright rooms or shaded patios, this palm brings elegance and life to your environment all year long. 

Quick Facts: 

  • Scientific Name: Ravenea rivularis
  • Common Names: Majesty Palm
  • Family: Arecaceae
  • Hardiness Zones: 10-11 (outdoor); container-growing in Zones 5-7
  • Height in Container: 5-10 ft
  • Width: 4-6 ft
  • Cold Tolerance: Sensitive below 40°F (4°C); must come indoors
  • Water Needs: Moderate to high
  • Light Requirements: Bright indirect light (indoors), partial sun (outdoors). However, placing Majesty Palms in full direct sunlight for extended periods can lead to sunburned leaves.
  • Maintenance Level: Moderate

Striking Appearance 

The Majesty Palm stands out for its lush, arching green fronds and graceful upright habit. Its leaflets are long and narrow, giving it a soft, fern-like look. Unlike some feather palms, the Majesty has a full, dense crown, making it a beautiful focal point in rooms or patios. 

Flowers & Fruit 

While outdoor Majesty Palms may bloom in tropical climates, flowering and fruiting are uncommon in Ontario's container-growing environment. This palm is grown almost entirely for its lush foliage and decorative value. 

Why Grow a Majesty Palm in a Container? 

Top 10 Benefits: 

  1. Indoor-outdoor Flexibility - Enjoy it outside in summer, bring it indoors for winter. 
  2. Lush Green Foliage - Provides instant tropical ambiance.
  3. Air Purifier - Helps clean indoor air, especially in low-ventilation spaces.
  4. Pet Friendly - Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
  5. Full Shape - Creates privacy or serves as a beautiful room divider.
  6. Low Pest Pressure - Pest issues are minimal with proper airflow and care.
  7. Affordable & Available - Widely available at nurseries and garden centers.
  8. Grows in Shade - Perfect for rooms without direct sunlight.
  9. Perfect for Corners - Adds height and softness to living spaces.
  10. Tropical Mood Booster - Greenery that improves wellbeing year-round.

Planting & Care Tips (Ontario Edition) 

Potting Mix: Use a moisture-retentive but well-draining mix—look for a blend with peat moss, perlite, and compost. 

Container: Start with a 10–14” wide pot and upsize as it grows. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent root rot. 

Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced liquid palm fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Cut back in winter. 

Humidity Needs: Majesty Palms love humid air—a humidifier, pebble tray, or regular misting is essential indoors. 

Watering Schedule for Majesty Palms (Ontario Zones 5–7, Container-Grown) 

Maintaining the right moisture level in the soil is vital for the health of Majesty Palms. It’s essential to keep the soil evenly moist, ensuring that it does not become waterlogged, as excess moisture can lead to root rot. On the other hand, allowing the soil to dry out too much between waterings can have detrimental effects; specifically, it can cause the plant to lose its lower leaves, leading to an ugly appearance and stunted growth. 

Tips: Place in bright indirect light to part sun. Avoid intense direct midday sun, which can scorch leaves. 

Ideal For: 

  • Patios, balconies, and shaded garden corners 
  • Condo living rooms, sunrooms, or foyers
  • Indoor gardens in homes and offices
  • Ontario gardeners who love tropical plants

Final Thoughts 

The Majesty Palm is a regal yet accessible option for those who want lush, leafy elegance year-round. Whether you’re using it as a statement piece in your home or enjoying it on the patio in the warmer months, this palm delivers tropical charm—without needing a tropical zip code. 

With consistent care, especially through the dry Ontario winter months, the Majesty Palm rewards you with gorgeous, dense green growth and a peaceful vibe all year long.