Light. Grows in full sun, partial sun or partial shade. Young palms and palms in full sun often turn yellow; some shade reduces it.
Water. Water often while it establishes. It grows best with plenty of water in soil that drains well, so water during dry spells.
Soil and feeding. It prefers fertile, slightly acidic soil. Feed regularly with a palm fertilizer such as Palm Special. Yellow, bronze-speckled older leaves usually mean potassium deficiency.
Size. Usually 15 ft or more, in a dense clump 8–10 ft wide. Old clumps can reach 20–30 ft.
Pruning. Little pruning is needed. Removing lower fronds shows off the stems and helps prevent fungus and insect problems.
Problems to watch. Scale insects, followed by black sooty mold, are the main pest; treat with Insecticidal Soap. Ganoderma root rot can also occur.
Good to know. Moderately tolerant of salt spray. It does best in frost-free areas.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS ENH324: Dypsis lutescens, Yellow Butterfly Palm · UF/IFAS EDIS FOR247: Dypsis lutescens, Areca Palm
