Dwarf Fan Palm, European fan palm, Hair Palm, Mediterranean Fan Palm

Chamaerops humilis

Physical Characteristics

Chamaerops humilis is an evergreen Tree growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1.5 m (5ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to June. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Europe - Mediterranean.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Very young leaf buds are cooked as a vegetable[46, 61, 105, 183]. The young shoots or suckers from the bottom of the plant are also used[2, 183]. Fruit - dried[177, 183]. No further details.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known