Chamaedorea cataractarum, commonly known as Cascade Palm, is an evergreen palm native to the understory of tropical rainforests in Southern Mexico. It is a small, trunkless, clumping palm that typically grows to about 2 m (6.6 ft) in height and 2.5 m (8.2 ft) across. The Cascade Palm has glossy, dark green leaves with long, thin leaflets that allow minimal resistance to flowing water, an adaptation to its native riparian habitats where it may experience periodic flooding. This species forms a large, dense clump over time and can be used as a hedge plant in tropical settings.

The Cascade Palm is valued for its lush foliage and suitability for indoor and shaded outdoor environments. It is often grown as an ornamental in gardens and as a houseplant in cooler climates. The palm’s flexible leaflets and creeping growth habit help anchor it against water flow, making it a resilient choice for areas with high moisture. It produces separate male and female flower stalks, with the male stalks withering after pollen release and the female stalks turning bright orange when seeds mature if pollinated. In cultivation, it thrives in part shade to full shade, requiring high amounts of water and well-draining soil. Regular watering is crucial to prevent dry soil, and fertilization every one to two months promotes healthy growth. It is less tolerant of cold temperatures, with a minimum suggested temperature of 4.5 °C (40.1 °F).CC BY-SA 4.0