European fan palm (Chamaerops humilis) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Although the European fan palm tree is a tropical plant, it grows well in dry air. However, you need to moisten the topsoil properly, especially in the summer. Water as frequently as it takes to keep the soil moist.

Fertilization

European fan palm prefers regular fertilizing, and it is especially necessary during the growing season. You can use a slow-release balanced fertilizer. The best time to fertilize is during fall and spring.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Loam, Sand, Chalky, Clay, Sandy loam, Acidic, Neutral, Slightly alkaline, Moderately alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Palms, bullanocks, and allies

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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European fan palm

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

8 to 11

Planting Time

Fall, Spring

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Questions About European fan palm

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my European fan palm?

When you keep your European fan palm indoors, the best way to water this plant is to apply water directly to the top layer of soil in the container. The water you use should be rainwater or distilled water and should be at or around room temperature. The best way to tell if your European fan palm needs water is to poke your finger into the soil. If you notice that the first few inches of soil are dry, you should add enough water to moisten those layers and cause excess water to drain through the bottom of your plant’s container. When in doubt, it is always safer to underwater your European fan palm, as overwatering is far more likely to cause fatal complications such as root rot. When growing the European fan palm outdoors, the rainfall alone may provide all the water it needs. However, if you receive rain less than once per week during the growing season, you will likely need to provide some supplemental water to the soil as well. Again, rainwater or distilled water will work best for this plant whether it grows indoors or outdoors.

What should I do if I water European fan palm too much/too little?

Some signs that the plants are not getting enough water are the brown tips on the plant.

Due to lack of water, the leaves become wilted and drooping, appearing lifeless at the very beginning. The leaves can become brown, crispy, and start to dry out if the water shortage is severe. When this happens, water as soon as possible.

Another thing about overwatering is that if this happens, then root rot can begin to set in. You need to remove all the damaged roots from the soil, especially if they appear mushy, fragile, and black. To help with these issues, it's important to cut off a larger part of the root.

Overwatering can also leave the leaves looking brown and ready to fall off. This can happen very early, so you should drain the excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering to help the plant recover.

Throw away the soil from the pot if there are signs of root rot. Clean everything thoroughly and make sure to put in the pebbles so it will help with proper drainage. Discard any excess water at the base of the pot if you notice tan rings or reddish-brown spots on the leaves. Check the plant's environment and make sure it is in a well-ventilated location so that the soil dries faster to prevent it from rotting again later.

What should I do if I water my European fan palm too much or too little?

Overwatering is the main issue to look out for when watering the European fan palm, and there are several sure signs that will indicate when this problem has arrived. The European fan palm that receives too much water will begin to develop brown, drooping leaves. The stems of the plant may also become mush and could produce a foul odor. Overwatering also leads to the common issue of root rot which can be fatal when unchecked. If you catch overwatering early enough, you may be able to resolve the issue by simply reducing your watering rate or by adding sand to the container to help improve soil drainage. In more severe overwatering cases, you will need to remove your European fan palm from its container, remove any rotten roots, and repot it in a new container. You should use a similar method if you grow your European fan palm outdoors and find that it is consistently receiving too much water. Again, soil drainage may be the cause, which is why you should consider transplanting your European fan palm to a different outdoor growing location, preferably one with looser soils. Underwatered European fan palm will exhibit drooping leaves as well, but they are more likely to be yellow than brown. You’ll also notice slower growth in the European fan palm that does not receive enough water. If you see such signs, you’ll need to increase the frequency with which you water your European fan palm.

How often should I water my European fan palm?

Typically, you will need to water your European fan palm about once per week during the growing season, which takes place throughout spring, summer, and early fall. The specific conditions of your growing environment may alter the rate at which the soil in your plant’s container dries out. As such, it helps to know how to monitor the soil for moisture to determine the watering frequency, rather than relying on a strict once-per-week rule. At times, this can mean you may need to water multiple times per week or water about once every ten days during the growing season.

The same guidelines apply when you grow the European fan palm outdoors. The only difference is that rainfall could affect your watering frequency. For example, if you receive about an inch or rainfall during the week, you should not add additional water as this could cause overwatering. You’ll also need to reduce your watering frequency during the winter when this plant is not putting forth as much active growth. In winter, you should allow the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings. Often this means watering your European fan palm about once every other week or once every three to four weeks.

How should I water my European fan palm differently if I grow it indoors?

Since most gardeners grow European fan palm indoors, they must be well prepared to alter their indoor growing environment to meet the needs of European fan palm. The main issue with an indoor location is that it is likely not as humid as the European fan palm would like. The quickest remedy for this is to run a humidifier in the room where your European fan palm grows. You can also place this plant in your bathroom, a room that tends to be more humid than others, so long as there is enough light that reaches it. You should also monitor the effect of air conditioners and heating units in your indoor growing location, as those elements can cause the soil in the container of your European fan palm to dry out more quickly, which will lead you to water it more often than you normally would. If you want to grow your European fan palm outdoors, you should first ensure that you region provides the warmth and humidity that your European fan palm needs. You should also be prepared to anticipate the natural rainfall, as weekly rain can be enough for your European fan palm to survive.

What should I consider when watering my European fan palm in different seasons and growth periods?

The rate at which you supply water for your European fan palm will change depending on the current season. During spring and summer, when this plant is in its most active growth stage, you should plan to give it water about once per week, altering that rate slightly in the case of extreme heat. During the late fall and winter, the growth of your European fan palm will slow, which means it will need less water. In winter, you can give this plant water about once every two weeks or less. For outdoor plants, you probably won't need to water at all during the late fall and winter, as any natural rainfall will likely meet the lower water needs of your European fan palm during this time. The European fan palm typically does not offer a large display of flowers or fruits, and it also tends to maintain the same moderate to slow growth rate throughout its life, which means that its watering needs will remain relatively the same regardless of the plant’s age.

How can I prune my European fan palm?

Pruning your European fan palm is a fairly simple process. First, you will need a reliable set of hand pruners or hedge trimmers. You may use a clean pair of sharp scissors if you don’t have pruners or garden shears on hand. It’s important to always clean your gardening tools before and after using them to prevent the possibility of spreading disease or infection to other plants. To prune your European fan palm simply allow your plant to go dormant over the Winter. Some time between late winter and early spring – or when new growth starts to appear – take your clean pruners or trimmers and cut away any dying, damaged, yellow or declining foliage. Repeat this process until you reach the base of the plant or until there are no dead pieces left to cut. When pruning, be careful not to damage the new growth that may be emerging near the base of your plant. These parts cannot be restored and pruning can increase the ventilation of the plants and facilitate their growth. Any pruning that is done to this plant should be cut straight across the blades or stems. No angled cuts are required. Diseased leaf blade foliage can be removed as it appears. This could be done anytime when your European fan palm is growing.

What should I do after pruning my European fan palm?

Once you’ve pruned your plant, you should dispose of the stems and leaves either by composting the healthy ones or throwing out the diseased parts. You can also fertilize just before or after pruning, which gives European fan palm a little vitamin boost that can provide it the nutrients needed to better protect itself from any nearby pathogens or diseases. Do not water the European fan palm immediately after pruning as this can lead to fungal infestation of the plants through the wounds. You don’t need much after care when you’re done pruning. It might benefit from light watering and some liquid plant food to encourage new growth.

How can I prune my European fan palm during different seasons?

Early spring and late winter are the best times to prune your European fan palm on a large scale. If you want to control the size of your European fan palm, you can prune them as you wish, but be careful not to prune more than a third of the size of the plant. Yellow and diseased leaves may appear during the summer months when the European fan palm is growing vigorously and these types of leaves need to be pruned back immediately. These parts of the European fan palm cannot be restored and pruning increases the ventilation of the plant and facilitates its growth.

When should I prune my European fan palm through different stages of growth?

Strategic pruning is usually done at different times of the year or during certain stages of growth depending on the plant. However, knowing when to prune your European fan palm depends on where you live and how established your plant is. For example, if your European fan palm is a new resident, it’s a good idea to wait until the plant starts to grow back before you start pruning. On the other hand, if your plant is already established, you will want to prune the dry or dead parts in plant before new leafy growth appears in early spring or late winter. This is the time of year when plants are dormant and pruning causes the least damage to them. This is also the best time of year to do more extensive pruning. It’s important to note that if European fan palm is pruned too late in the season, it can leave new growth at risk for damage or disease. However, if your European fan palm is indoors this is not a problem and you can prune at any time. Since this can affect the long-term health and appearance of your plant, it’s important to keep this in mind when deciding when and how to prune. As your European fan palm grows larger over time, you can trim it as needed after annual pruning. Dead, damaged, or diseased leaf blade foliage can be removed as it appears. This could be done anytime when your European fan palm is growing.

How much/long should European fan palm get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that European fan palm receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does European fan palm need?

European fan palm does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage European fan palm? How to protect European fan palm from the sun and heat damage?

European fan palm planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive European fan palm during extreme weather events.

Does European fan palm need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect European fan palm from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for European fan palm, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle.

If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for European fan palm to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day.

To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if European fan palm gets inadequate sunlight?

When European fan palm receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If European fan palm receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does European fan palm need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young European fan palm and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. European fan palm fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and European fan palm?

Recently transplanted European fan palm will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of European fan palm drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily.

European fan palm that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

What is the optimal temperature for European fan palm?

Colder temperatures can affect plants since they have the same temperature as the air around them. When they are exposed to the sun, they can start to get warm again, but this is not the case during winter. The temperature range for the European fan palm is often 70~85℉(21~30℃). They might tolerate 20~30℉(-6~0℃) even 15℉(-10℃), but not for long since this can result in frost damage. Maximum temperatures should be around 70~85℉(21~30℃), but make sure that you spray them with water from time to time and give them some shade to prevent wilting.

Should I adjust the temperature for European fan palm during different growing phases?

Do some research and make sure that the temperature is right when growing European fan palm. Some growers might consider decreasing the plants' thermostats during the growing season to reduce HVAC costs. However, it's vital to understand that the temperature can affect the flowering, pest management, and quality of the plants.

There will be a temperature point where the European fan palm will stop growing, and this can happen during the winter when some species might go into a dormant state. The base temperature becomes warmer when the season changes and the European fan palm can grow faster. The species that are naturally growing in warm habitats have higher optimum temperatures when you compare them to the ones that thrive in a cooler climate.

When the seeds of European fan palm are exposed to cool temperatures, this can cause a decrease in uniformity and delays. You might also want to lower the temperature during flowering but not at other phases. Cooler temperatures at night will also require less water, so adjust the irrigation as needed.

How can I keep European fan palm warm in cold seasons?

Stop fertilizing the plant to avoid new growth and allow the old ones to become hardy. This way, they can endure colder temperature when it begins to drop. To keep them warm, you can build structures around the European fan palm like cages or trellises. There are also options to use heat mats that can gently warm the soil since they can consistently maintain an ideal temperature range for the European fan palm.

How can I save European fan palm from temperature damage?

During winter, you can protect the European fan palm from frost by covering it with cloths, tarps, burlaps, sheets, or plastic buckets. Make sure to keep them down so they continue to act as insulators and the wind will not blow them away. However, ensure that the plastic sheets or burlap covers should not touch any part of the fruit or foliage, or the cold temperatures can transfer to the material and cause burns. When the temperatures begin to rise during the daytime, remove the covers.

Should I adjust the temperature for European fan palm in different seasons?

When growing the European fan palm in spring, you might want to increase humidity since the air temperature tends to be cooler at this time. A dry temperature can be a stressful growing environment for various species, which can help. If summer arrives, the large cover of the greenhouse and the warm temperature will mean that there will be a higher humidity level in the air. Some signs to look for are the condensation that is often found on the walls of the greenhouse, and this can cause issues with pollination and the development of infections when the water begins to fall on the leaves. Make adjustments according to the temperature and do some spraying during the hotter days of the year.

What damage will European fan palm suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Generally, the first cold snap can destroy the European fan palm and others might go into a dormant state when the temperature is low. Some plants can get chilled when the temperatures range from 20~30℉(-6~0℃). They can freeze when the temperature begins to drop below 32℉(0℃). Those species that hide most of their parts under the soil might lose their structures above ground, but they can recover in spring. Some of the associated issues with too low temperatures are the lack of availability of resources like water, and nutrients, and those subtropical plants can suffer when the temperature reaches below 20℉(-6℃). The plants can also get damaged because of extreme heat stress when it's too high. This can reduce the transpiration rate that can affect the growth and productivity of European fan palm.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for European fan palm?

You need to cover the plants at night since these can add about 5 degrees more to protect the species from frost and freezing temperatures. The cloth rows can work well as blankets and ensure that there are no openings where the heat could escape.

When using the covers, avoid the plastic from touching the foliage because this can cause the European fan palm to freeze. Remember to keep the covers during the day and stop using heat pads during the summer. It will always be worth the effort to protect the cold-intolerant plants from freezing temperatures to help them survive.

How can I keep European fan palm warm without a heat pad?

If you prefer not to use a heat pad, bring the European fan palm inside, especially if it's freezing outdoors. During spring, consider the ones you need to bring indoors and plant them in moveable pots and containers.

How can I provide European fan palm with an adequate temperature condition?

Most often, the ones caring for the European fan palm will grow them in greenhouses. This is because they can provide adequate temperature in these areas that won't affect the photosynthesis process of a specific process.

Some install the proper HVAC systems to control the temperatures of European fan palm. This can handle many species' cooling and heating needs, especially during the summer and winter. They generally place the cooling or heating pad under the plants rather than above to achieve their desired temperatures.

If outdoors, you can protect the European fan palm from frost by covering it with cloths, tarps, burlaps, sheets, or plastic buckets.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for European fan palm?

Heat mats are often left on European fan palm to set the temperatures at a more consistent level. When the weather becomes warmer during the day, you can remove them, especially if the species are exposed to the sun. Put the pads away once the plants are established and when they start growing flowers and fruits.

Why do I need to fertilize my European fan palm?

Regardless of which kind of European fan palm you own, regular fertilization will help you grow a plant that has great overall health. The proper supply of nutrients leads to more vigorous growth and can help your European fan palm be more resilient to tough growing conditions while also gaining a better ability to fight off diseases and pests.

The foliage of your European fan palm is one of its most attractive features, which is why you should do all you can to keep it intact. Again, this means creating and adhering to a regular fertilization schedule that is specific to your European fan palm. Doing so will prompt your European fan palm to develop leaves with a deep color and a lush overall look.

When is the best time to fertilize my European fan palm?

The first time that you should fertilize your European fan palm is during the late winter or early spring. This type of fertilization gives your European fan palm all the nutrients it needs to resume healthy growth once the weather gets warm enough.

It is also beneficial to many European fan palm to provide an additional fertilizer feeding during early fall if you in a warm climate region. Fertilizing in early fall not only adds additional nutrients to the soil, which your European fan palm will use in the following growing season, but it also helps your European fan palm be a bit more hardy and capable of surviving the winter cold without experiencing foliage damage. Earlier fertilisation will ensure that the new branches have enough time to grow to withstand the cold winter.

When should I avoid fertilizing my European fan palm?

There are a few times during the year when you should not fertilize your European fan palm. The first time occurs during the early and mid-winter months, during which time your European fan palm will be dormant and in no need of feeding.

It is also unwise to fertilize this plant during the late spring and all of the summer. During that time of year, the weather will likely be hotter and can be much dryer as well. Both conditions make it more likely that your European fan palm will have a very negative response to fertilization. To avoid such issues, stick to a fertilization schedule that involves feeding exclusively during early spring and early fall.

What type of fertilizer does my European fan palm need?

In most cases, the most important nutrient for a European fan palm is nitrogen, but that does not mean that phosphorus and potassium are unimportant. On the contrary, your European fan palm likely needs a decent amount of all three main nutrients, which is why a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, can work well.

However, a more nuanced ratio of nutrients often leads to optimal growth for a European fan palm. Often, fertilizers that are a bit higher in nitrogen work a bit better. For example, a ratio of 10-6-4 can often work well. When fertilizing, you can use a granular fertilizer or a liquid-based one.

How do I fertilize my European fan palm?

To fertilize your European fan palm using a granular fertilizer, all you need to do is sprinkle the fertilizer on the soil at the correct time. The slow-release nature of granular fertilizer will release nutrients into the soil slowly over time. As is usually the case, it's best to water your European fan palm, at least lightly, before applying fertilizer.

As an alternative, you can use a liquid fertilizer, but this is less common. To use this approach, mix your fertilizer with water, then pour the water onto the soil around the base of your European fan palm. At times, it is beneficial to perform a soil test before fertilizing to see if you will need to alter the pH at all.

What happens if I fertilize my European fan palm too much?

Overfertilization is always a risk when you are feeding a European fan palm. Overfertilization is especially likely if you feed this plant at the wrong time of year, feed it too often, or feed it without watering the soil first.

When overfertilization takes place, your European fan palm may begin to develop brown leaves. Your European fan palm can also show stunted growth in some cases. On the other hand, it is also possible that too much fertilizer can prompt your European fan palm to rapidly produce too much new growth, much of which will be weak and prone to breaking. Weak new wood can also detract from the overall form and structure of your European fan palm.

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Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for European fan palm based on 10 million real cases

Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

Solutions: The solution to leaf scorch will depend on the cause, however, in general all cultural care methods that improve plant health and root functionality will reduce symptoms. Mulching the root zone (preferably with wood chip mulch) helps retain moisture, reduce evaporation, and promotes a healthy, functional root environment that is critical for water movement to the leaves. Check the root collar for girdling or circling roots that strangle the trunk and limit water and nutrient movement. Protect trees from severe root damage of nearby construction and excavation. If fertilizer burn is to blame, irrigate the soil deeply to flush out excess fertilizer salts. However, keep in mind that fertilizer runoff is an environmental pollutant. Avoiding excess fertilization in the first place is the best approach. If soil testing has revealed a potassium deficiency, apply a potassium fertilizer and water well. Even if you have enough potassium in the soil, plants will not be able to take it up if the soil is consistently too dry. Severely affected twigs may be removed using a pair of sharp and sanitized pruning shears, as weakened branches are susceptible to secondary infections. If your plant has bacterial leaf scorch, there is no cure. Antibiotic injections applied by a professional can reduce symptoms for a season, however, the above cultural management methods are the best options to reduce symptoms and prolong life. An infected plant will likely die within ten years.

Leaf tips withering

Low air humidity can cause the edges of the leaves to dry out.

Solutions: If your plant has only a few dried tips, complete the following: Increase humidity. Increase the humidity around your plant by misting it with a spray bottle daily. Alternatively, you can use a humidifier. Water plant. If your soil is dry, water until the soil is moist but not damp. Water again when soil dries out. If a large portion of the leaves is suffering from dry tips, complete the following: Prune away affected tissue. Using sharp and clean pruning shears, remove the dried out tips using clean cuts to avoid harming healthy tissue. Plant tissue will heal on its own, but you can apply a pruning seal for extra protection.

Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

Solutions: If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.

Fruit withering

Fungal infection or normal ripening can cause the fruit to dry out.

Solutions: There are a number of appropriate solutions to control fruit withering: Remove any fruit as soon as it shows any signs of infection. Do not compost. Use a fungicide prior to leaf bud and then as per manufacturers instructions throughout the season.

Scars

Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.

Solutions: Each source of scarring requires a different approach to help your plant recover. Protect the trunk and leaves from physical damage like scrapes. If pests or disease are the cause of scarring, isolate the plant from others to avoid further spread. Some pests can be removed with organic remedies such as a soft cloth and soapy water solution or diluted isopropyl alcohol spray. Stop sunburn by moving your plant away from direct sunlight and making sure it has the water it needs. Frequent leaf or bud loss may be due to insufficient light or nutrients.

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

Solutions: There are several easy ways to remedy the nutrient deficiencies in soils. Use a water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilizers will include most or all of the macro and micro-nutrients the plants need to thrive. Adding some fertilizer to the soil will make those nutrients available and can combat deficiencies. Regularly apply organic fertilizer pellets. Organic fertilizers such as animal manures and bonemeal can supply plants with all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Apply compost. Though not as finely tuned as artificial fertilizer, compost can nevertheless be rich in important nutrients and should be applied to the soil regularly. Apply nutrients via foliar application. In addition to supplementing the soil with nutrients, foliar fertilizer can be applied directly to the plant's leaves. Nutrients offered via foliar application are often taken up even quicker than those put in the soil, so the foliar application can be great for swiftly addressing specific deficiencies.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Dry sandy, Rocky soils

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Palm

Flower Color

Yellow

Cream

Gold

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Blue

Gray

Silver

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.

Symbolism

Embolden, victory

Usages

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.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Family

Palm

Genus

Species

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Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

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European fan palm

Chamaerops humilis

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.

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Care Guide for European fan palm

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Loam, Sand, Chalky, Clay, Sandy loam, Acidic, Neutral, Slightly alkaline, Moderately alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Questions About European fan palm

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my European fan palm?

What should I do if I water European fan palm too much/too little?

What should I do if I water my European fan palm too much or too little?

How often should I water my European fan palm?

How should I water my European fan palm differently if I grow it indoors?

What should I consider when watering my European fan palm in different seasons and growth periods?

How can I prune my European fan palm?

What should I do after pruning my European fan palm?

How can I prune my European fan palm during different seasons?

When should I prune my European fan palm through different stages of growth?

How much/long should European fan palm get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

What type of sunlight does European fan palm need?

Can sunlight damage European fan palm? How to protect European fan palm from the sun and heat damage?

Does European fan palm need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect European fan palm from the sun?

What will happen if European fan palm gets inadequate sunlight?

Does European fan palm need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and European fan palm?

What is the optimal temperature for European fan palm?

Should I adjust the temperature for European fan palm during different growing phases?

How can I keep European fan palm warm in cold seasons?

How can I save European fan palm from temperature damage?

Should I adjust the temperature for European fan palm in different seasons?

What damage will European fan palm suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for European fan palm?

How can I keep European fan palm warm without a heat pad?

How can I provide European fan palm with an adequate temperature condition?

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for European fan palm?

Why do I need to fertilize my European fan palm?

When is the best time to fertilize my European fan palm?

When should I avoid fertilizing my European fan palm?

What type of fertilizer does my European fan palm need?

How do I fertilize my European fan palm?

What happens if I fertilize my European fan palm too much?

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Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for European fan palm based on 10 million real cases

Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

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Leaf tips withering

Low air humidity can cause the edges of the leaves to dry out.

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Aged yellow and dry

Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.

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Fruit withering

Fungal infection or normal ripening can cause the fruit to dry out.

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Scars

Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.

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Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Dry sandy, Rocky soils

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Palm

Flower Color

Yellow

Cream

Gold

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Blue

Gray

Silver

Name story

European fan palm||Dwarf fan palm

Symbolism

Embolden, victory

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Palms, bullanocks, and allies

Family

Palm

Genus

Species

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# Useful Tips