Accession Count: 261
Common Name:
Mediterranean fan palm, Mediterranean palm
Family Name:
Arecaceae
Botanical Name:
Chamaerops humilis
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
Chamaerops humilis is a clumping palm with curved trunks, which grows to be ten feet tall, and just as wide. This palm is topped with pale green, fan shaped leaves which are two to three feet across. It does not flower, and produces small reddish-brown seeds.
Compound:
Cha hum
Geographic Origin:
Europe
Ecozone Origin:
Palearctic
Biome Origin:
Natural History:
The Mediterranean Fan Palm originated on the continent of Europe (4), and is the only palm that is native in Europe (4). It is primarily found along the western coast of the Mediterranean in both Europe and Northern Africa (2, 3, 4). The type of palm has been distributed to many locations all over the world, including Algeria, The Balearic Islands, France, Italy, Morocco, and Portugal (4).
Cultivation Notes:
The hard seed of C. humilis has one cotyledon that provides a source of energy during the beginning stages of germination (3). Weevils are one of the main sources for seed dispersal for the palm (3,4). Weevils are attracted to the plant because of the scent given off by the leaves of the palm (4). Foxes and badgers can also aid the dispersal of seeds. The palm is wind pollinated (3, 4). This plant thrives in full to partial sunlight (1, 2, 3,4). It usually grows in clumps (multi-trunk) but many people remove suckers from the base to create a single truck palm (3, 4). It grows best in moist soil. The ability of this palm to withstand heavy wind is one of its key features, as well as being able to re-sprout after a fire (3,4). The more water the palm receives, the faster it will grow, although it only needs a moderate amount of moisture to survive (1, 2, 3). This palm does not require much care besides pruning away some stems, and occasional watering. C. humilis can be used as a container plant or an accent plant. This palm can also be used as a border, barrier, or windbreak. This palm is subject to heart rot fungus. It thrives in coastal areas, primarily in limestone soil, but it is tolerant of many others soil types and conditions, for example: slopes, rocky areas, and
sand (3). It is found in different locations due to its durability in
many different types of climate; wind, drought, rain, and the exposure
to the ocean (3). This palm is hardy to 12°F.
Ethnobotany:
Animals do not commonly use C. humilis, although it can be a source of food for mice and other tiny mammals, which will eat part of the fruit (drupe) (4). Humans utilize this palm for a variety of uses (4). Since this plant is very durable, and can withstand extreme weather, it can help prevent erosion or desertification (4). The fully developed leaves have been used for the creation of mats, brooms and baskets (3, 4). The fruit of this palm is not edible, but in Spain, the immature husk, also known as the “higa” is eaten (4). C. humilis also has astringent properties (3, 4). In landscapes, the Mediterranean fan palm is excellent for narrow spaces.
Height:
11 - 15 feet
Width:
6 - 10 feet
Growth Rate:
Slow Growing
Grow Season:
Summer
Flower Season:
Summer
Color:
Cream
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
