The Encyclopedia of House Plants

Click a link for description, or click a picture to see a larger image

Chamaerops

Family: Palmae.

Chamaerops humilis L. Common name(s): European fan palm
Chamaerops Genus of one species of shrubby palm from dry scrub and rocky or sandy slops in the W. Mediterranean region. Its native range extends from Africa's Atlas Mountains in Morroco to Spain and France and eastward to Turkey. Chamaerops humilis (European fan palm) can grow up to 15' in height. The triangular, fan-shaped leaves grow to about 20-24" long by 24" wide. They are deeply divided into multiple segments that are themselves split at the tip and they are supported on 3-4' stems. This is an extremely variable plant both in color (the leaves range from blue-green to grey-green to yellow-green) and in shape. Prefers bright sunny conditions, also does well in part shade with some direct sunlight. It will survive in rather heavy shade but "stretches" to loose its compact shape. Is very drought tolerant once established.
Growing conditions Watering and misting Propagation
Average warmth.Good indirect light is the proper location. Grow in soil-based potting mix. Compost must be kept moist at all times and never allowed to dry out. Misting is necessary. Sow seed at not less than 72 F (22 C) in spring. Can also be propagated by dividing clumps or removing suckers both which require superhuman effort.

These materials are freely provided for instructional and educational purposes. Any duplication or publication of text or images herein for commercial gain without explicit written permission of the owner or photographer constitutes breach of trust and violation of copyright.
Copyright © Galka Okhapkina 1998-2024