Chamaerops humilis – House Plants

Chamaerops humilis is commonly known as Mediterranean dwarf palm. It is a slow growing plant. They develop around 6 inches a year and reach their mature height of 20 feet quiet slowly. They are still incredibly popular as they have beautiful fronds and bark. The Mediterranean fan palm develops in a clumping habit due to its multiple trunks. The trunk grows thick especially at the base area and is a furry brown fibrous type which shows frond stubs once they begin shedding. The stems grow from the trunk at an upward angle and display the stiff fan style fronds. Its sharply toothed leaves may cause injury when you handle or brush against them. so be careful when you handle this plants.

Scientific Name: Chamaerops humilis
Common Names: European fan palm, Mediterranean dwarf palm, and Dwarf fan palm, Chamaerops.

 

 

 

 

 

How to grow and maintain Chamaerops humilis:

Light:
A half day of full sun from an east window is ideal for this plant. It likewise does well with high light filtered through a sheer curtain. It can also take high light from a south window, however, should be adjusted carefully to those conditions or the leaves burn.

Soil:
Chamaerops humilis like a well-drained moderately fertile soil, however, it will also endure a poor soil.

Temperature:
Daytime 70 to 80ºF, nighttime 60 to 70ºF. Mediterranean dwarf palm needs cool night from 50 to 60ºF in winter.

Water:
During spring and summer water frequently keeping the soil moist. After this period enables the topsoil to become slightly dry before watering once more. The pot must enable water to drain well and the soil.

Fertilizer:
A liquid feed given regularly throughout the growing season will greatly benefit the plant and help to promote new growth. Stop feeding your plant in fall and winter.

Pruning:
Remove old tired foliage when necessary. Do be careful of the sharp barbs along the leaf stems.

Propagation:
Chamaerops humilis is easy to propagate from seed. You can also carefully remove a sucker from the base of the plant’s trunk and plant it in its own pot.give it filtered light until it is well rooted and established.

Pests and Diseases:
No serious pests and diseases problems. Watch for scale insects.