European fan or Mediterranean Fan Palm

Chamaerops Humilis

The Chamaerops humilis palm is an easy plant to grow indoors. It thrives in bright light and dry air. It will usually top out at four feet when cultivated indoors. As the tree matures, it will start to sprout dangerously sharp spikes all over the trunk. The fronds are very fine and grow into a round shape that has a dozen or more leaflets each. The color ranges from deep green hues to silvery green. The roots of the Chamaerops humilis are very fragile, so once it has reached an ideal size, you can simply dress the soil to keep it healthy.

LIGHT

Content divider

These palms thrive in full sun, but can tolerate part shade as well. A Chamaerops humilis should receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight every day and the rest of the day bright, indirect light.

WATER

Content divider

In Spring and Summer months, keep the palm constantly moist. In the Fall and Winter, allow to dry to within 2 inches of surface between waterings.

FERTILIZING

Content divider

Feed monthly in the Spring and Summer with a well-balanced fertilizer diluted a ½ the recommended strength. DO NOT feed in Fall and Spring.

TIPS

Content divider
  • Chamaerops humilis plants can live for several decades when well cared for.
  • Older fan palm fronds will start to split as the tree grows older.
  • Chamaerops humilis plants should not be repotted often because their roots are pretty fragile.
  • The European palm will produce yellow flowers on occasion.
  • The European fan palm is very sensitive to fluoride and chlorine.