Abstract Remarkably diverse species occurring in equally diverse habitats characterize Chamaedorea, a genus of about 90 dioecious species restricted to the understory of neotropical rain and cloud forests from Mexico to Bolivia and Ecuador. A vast array of habits, stems, leaves, inflorescences, flowers, and fruits reflect the diversity of species. Although the genus is most species-rich in dense, moist or wet, diverse forests from 800-1,500 meters elevation, a few exceptional species occur in open and/or seasonally dry forests, on harsh substrates, or in other unusual habitats.