European fan palm (Chamaerops humilis)

European fan palm

Also known as: Mediterranean dwarf palm, Palmetto

European fan palm (Chamaerops humilis) is a palm species native to Europe. European fan palm grows at a latitude that is farther north than any other similar species. Palms can be utilized commercially to make woven goods like baskets.

Scientific classification

Species

European fan palm (Chamaerops humilis)

Palms, bullanocks, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Palm

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

1.8 m to 4.5 m

Plant Height

1.8 m to 6 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Orange, Red, Green, Copper, Burgundy, Purple, Lavender

Fruit Color

Yellow, Cream, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of European fan palm

Distribution of European fan palm

Distribution Map

European fan palm is native to the west and central Mediterranean. It grows in mountains and rocky hills. It has been introduced in the Dominican Republic, where it is used in gardens and as a container plant.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry sandy, Rocky soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

European fan palm (Chamaerops humilis) is an arresting evergreen palm that is so popular it received the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit. This palm is loved for its fan-shaped leaves and stunning yellow blooms. This is a salt-tolerant plant ideal for coastal gardens, especially in combination with plants like New Zealand flax, canna, and cyperus. It also makes a great specimen or container plant.

Symbolism

Embolden, victory

Interesting Facts

European fan palm is the only accepted species in the genus Chamaerops. It is partly pollinated by the wind, and partly pollinated by the insect called weevil (Derelomus chamaeropsis) which is the only known pollinator of european fan palm.

Name Story

European fan palm||Dwarf fan palm: The leaves of this short plant have different shapes. One petiole consists of up to 10-20 fan-shaped leaflets, so it is called fan palm. As it is too small compared with the common Chamaerops, it is also called dwarf fan palm. Furthermore, Chamaerops is one of the only two palm species in the European continent, so it is also called European fan palm.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of European fan palm, including the following common varieties :

European fan palm

Quickly Identify European fan palm

Large, palmate-compound leaves with 10-20 finger-like leaflets and distinctive silver-green coloration.

Robust trunk with fibrous, shaggy bark covered in old leaf bases, creating a rough, hirsute texture.

Bright yellow flowers, inconspicuous but dense on branched inflorescences, blooming in early to mid-spring.

Clusters of fleshy drupes resembling berries, varying in color and texture, ripening to 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm).

Cold-resistant, shrubby growth habit adaptable to full sunlight, reaching 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) in height.

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Care Guide for European fan palm

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: European fan palm thrives in a Mediterranean climate with balanced sun and occasional rain. It tolerates dry conditions and requires moderate watering every 1-2 weeks. Preferring full sunlight, european fan palm is grown outdoors and maintains consistent water needs year-round for lush foliage.

Fertilize: To maintain european fan palm vigor, apply balanced fertilizers bimonthly in spring/summer and semiannually in fall, tapering off in winter. Use high-nitrogen variants during growth phases. Conduct soil testing, apply evenly to avoid over-fertilization, and handle fertilizers safely by wearing gloves.

Pruning: European fan palm is a hardy clump-forming plant with fan-shaped leaves. Prune in early spring to remove dead fronds, enhancing air circulation and new growth. Avoid over-pruning to prevent stress, and regularly trim spent flowers for a tidy appearance and healthier growth.

Propagation: Indigenous to the Mediterranean, european fan palm is a hardy clumping palm that can be propagated by division. Carefully excavate to separate offshoots, pot them in well-draining soil, and maintain moisture until new growth shows establishment. Its resilience makes european fan palm rewarding for new gardeners.

Repotting: Repot european fan palm every 1-2 years in spring using a container one size larger. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and moderate watering. Fresh, well-draining soil supports european fan palm’s growth, making it a low-maintenance plant that thrives easily.

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