Chamaerops - Dwarf Fan Palm

(Chamae'rops)

DESCRIPTION: This group consists of only one tender, evergreen plant, native of Southwestern Europe and Northern Africa. C. humilis, commonly known as the Dwarf Fan Palm, is a dwarf Palm that grows over mountainsides along the shores of its native environment. The Dwarf Fan Palm rarely grows over 5 feet high, ordinarily forming a shrubby, multi-stemmed mass, though some have grown with a short trunk. Its large, fan-shaped leaves average 3 to 4 feet in length, are deeply divided and have very stiff segments. Mature plants will bear small yellow flowers in early spring. The leaves of this Palm are collected in its native countries, dried, divided into strips, and used for braiding into bags, mats, etc.

POTTING: This plant flourishes in fibrous loam with a bit of leaf mold or decayed manure and plenty of coarse grit added. They must have good drainage. Dwarf Fan Palms should be provided with an abundance of water in the summer and a minimum temperature of 50º F. The amount of water can be decreased in the winter, though, the soil must not become too dry. In climates where this Palm isn't hardy, it can successfully be grown in a container.

PROPAGATION: This plant can be increased by seeds and by removing the offsets in the spring.

VARIETIES: C. humilis.

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