Is Sherwin Williams Palm Leaf the Perfect Shade for You?
In today’s post, I’m going to show you everything about Sherwin Williams Palm Leaf paint – a rich yellow-green shade that brings a touch of nature indoors.
I’ve used this color in multiple rooms and seen its magic firsthand. With an LRV of 10, this deep shade creates the same cozy feeling as sitting under a shaded tree on a warm afternoon.
Plus, it perfectly captures that charming vintage feel of 1970s avocado green, but with a modern twist.
Let me walk you through why this paint color might be exactly what your space needs.
What Color is Sherwin Williams Palm Leaf?
Let me tell you what makes Palm Leaf (SW 7735) special.
This paint has a deep yellow-green tone that reminds me of fresh garden herbs. Imagine the rich green of a mature basil leaf mixed with earthy undertones.
With a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 10, Palm Leaf sits on the darker end of the scale. Just so you know, LRV runs from 0 (pure black) to 100 (pure white). This means Palm Leaf will soak up most of the light that hits it, making your space feel more grounded and cozy.
I find it interesting how this color brings back memories of those popular avocado greens from the 1970s.
But don’t worry – it has a fresh, updated feel that works perfectly in today’s homes.
Lighting Effects on Sherwin Williams Palm Leaf
Since I’ve worked with Palm Leaf in different settings, let me share how this color shifts throughout the day.
Because it has a low LRV of 10, lighting plays a big role in how this paint looks on your walls.
Natural Light Appearance:
In morning sunlight, Palm Leaf shows off its yellow notes, giving rooms a warm, fresh feel.
During mid-day sun, the color stays true to its deep green nature. When sunset comes around, the color takes on richer, moodier tones that make spaces feel extra cozy.
Under Artificial Light:
- Bright white LED bulbs bring out the crisp green notes
- Warm yellow bulbs highlight the earthy undertones
- Cool fluorescent lights might make it appear slightly darker
Small Room Tips: If you’re painting a small room, I recommend testing Palm Leaf on different walls first.
Since it’s a darker shade, you’ll want to make sure you have enough light to balance its depth.
Large Room Performance: In bigger rooms with plenty of windows, Palm Leaf really shines.
The color stays consistent across large wall spaces and creates a beautiful backdrop that changes subtly as natural light moves through your home.
Room Transformations Featuring Palm Leaf
Let me walk you through how Palm Leaf transforms different spaces in your home. I’ve seen this color create magic in various rooms.
1. Bedroom
When I first painted my guest bedroom in Palm Leaf, I was worried it might feel too dark. But after living with it for six months, I’ve noticed how the color shifts beautifully throughout the day.
Before
- Plain beige walls with no personality
- Room felt too bright and exposed
- Furniture looked disconnected
- Space lacked softness and comfort
After
- Palm Leaf creates a sleep-friendly environment
- Color deepens at night under soft lighting
- Makes bedding and pillows pop against the walls
- Perfect backdrop for both light and dark furniture
- Creates a natural flow with indoor plants
- Light fixtures cast a warm glow against the green
2. Kitchen
I helped my sister paint her kitchen in Palm Leaf last spring. At first, she wasn’t sure about using such a rich color in her cooking space.
Three months later, she told me her family spends more time in the kitchen than ever before.
I’ve noticed how her white plates and serving dishes look extra special against the green walls during family dinners.
Before
- Basic white walls lacked character
- Space felt cold and unwelcoming
- Appliances stood out too harshly
- No visual interest during meal prep
After
- Walls complement both light and dark cabinetry
- Makes stainless steel appliances look built-in
- Creates warmth for family gatherings
- Natural stone counters look richer
- Brass hardware stands out beautifully
- Morning light brings out the yellow undertones
3. Living Room
My client Sarah chose Palm Leaf for her living room after trying five different paint samples. I watched her space change from a room no one used to the heart of her home.
Before
- Light gray walls felt impersonal
- Room lacked depth and interest
- Furniture blended into the background
- Space felt too formal
After
- Creates an ideal background for art pieces
- Makes neutral sofas and chairs stand out
- Books and shelving look more styled
- Natural wood tones shine against the walls
- Evening lighting creates a cozy atmosphere
- Perfect for both casual and formal settings
4. Home Office
Using Palm Leaf in my own home office changed my workday completely. My eyes feel less tired after long computer sessions, and my clients often comment on how good my video calls look.
Before
- White walls caused screen glare
- Space felt like a boring cubicle
- Hard to focus on work
- Video calls looked washed out
After
- Reduces eye strain during computer work
- Creates professional video call background
- Makes wood desks look more high-end
- Brings life to metal filing cabinets
- Paper documents stand out nicely
- Plants thrive against the green backdrop
5. Laundry Room
I turned my tiny laundry room into a space I actually enjoy spending time in with Palm Leaf. The color hides the occasional water spots, and my white washer and dryer look more expensive now.
Friends ask me who designed my laundry room, and they’re always surprised to learn that paint alone made such a big difference.
Before
- Builder-grade white showed every mark
- Room felt like an afterthought
- Appliances looked budget-friendly
- Space felt purely functional
After
- Makes the small space feel intentional
- Hides water spots and marks
- White appliances look more expensive
- Creates interest in a utility space
- Storage containers pop against walls
- Makes laundry time more pleasant
Similar Sherwin-Williams Colors vs Palm Leaf
Paint Color | Color Code | LRV | How It Compares to Palm Leaf |
---|---|---|---|
Basil Green | SW 6194 | 13 | • Slightly lighter than Palm Leaf, More gray undertones, Less yellow in the mix,Better for bright rooms |
Garden Grove | SW 6445 | 7 | • Darker than Palm Leaf, More forest green tones, Fewer yellow undertones<, Creates a moodier feel |
Saguaro | SW 6419 | 12 | • Close to Palm Leaf’s depth, More olive undertones, Warmer overall tone, Works well in sunny spaces |
Kale Green | SW 6460 | 8 | • Deeper than Palm Leaf, More blue undertones, Less warmth, Good for north-facing rooms |
Relentless Olive | SW 6425 | 11 | • Similar to Palm Leaf, More brown undertones, Earthier appearance, Nice for traditional homes |
My Experience with These Colors:
I’ve used these colors in different homes, and here’s what stands out to me about each one:
- Palm Leaf feels the most balanced for everyday living
- Basil Green works better in small spaces
- Garden Grove makes a strong statement in large rooms
- Saguaro brings warmth to cool-toned rooms
- Kale Green pairs well with modern furniture
- Relentless Olive suits traditional decor
Expert Insights on Palm Leaf
Let me share what interior design experts, including myself, have learned about using Palm Leaf in various spaces.
Color Psychology: According to color specialists, Palm Leaf’s natural green tones can:
- Lower stress levels in busy spaces
- Help create better focus in work areas
- Make rooms feel connected to nature
- Create a sense of balance in open spaces
Professional Tips for Success:
Lighting Recommendations:
- Place floor lamps in corners to reduce shadows
- Use white-toned bulbs rated at 3000K-4000K
- Add under-cabinet lights in kitchens
- Install dimmer switches for mood control
Best Pairings:
- White trim makes the color stand out
- Natural wood tones create warmth
- Brass fixtures add subtle shine
- Cream fabrics soften the look
Application Advice:
- Use two thin coats instead of one thick layer
- Let each coat dry fully (24 hours minimum)
- Test in 3-foot squares before full coverage
- Paint during daylight hours for best results
Conclusion
When choosing the right paint color, small details make a big impact. Palm Leaf offers a fresh take on green that works in any room of your house.
From creating cozy bedrooms to stylish home offices, this color proves its worth through its adaptability and charm.
Remember, the key to success with Palm Leaf lies in proper lighting and thoughtful pairings.
Take time to test the color in your space, observe it at different times of day, and plan your room’s lighting carefully.
Ready to try Palm Leaf in your home? I’d love to hear about your plans in the comments below.
Want more paint color insights? Check out my guide to choosing the perfect green for your space.