Areca catechu or the Betel Nut Palm is an elegant tree that is as decorative as it is useful in producing a valuable cash crop.
It features a smooth trunk and long, feathery fronds that are initially erect but tend to flop with age.
It produces green acorn-like fruits that mature to a rich red colour. These contain the nut that is valued for its calmative and warming (though addictive) properties when chewed.
The this attractive palm is often used in interior landscaping, especially in large indoor areas like shopping malls and hotels, however it does not fruit or reach full size unless outdoors.
Indoors, it is a slow growing, requires little water but plenty of light.