Types of Fan Palms
Chinese fan palms (Livistona chinensis) are very popular in the Florida landscape but also make an excellent indoor plant for a sunny room. This neat palm is slow growing and has a single, upright trunk and large leaves that can reach up to 6 feet (2 m.) in length. The European fan palm (Chamaerops humilis) is an attractive, multi-stemmed palm for indoor use. Fronds are fan shaped and sit atop a 4 foot (1 m.) stem. Leaves are grayish green in color and about 2 feet (61 cm.) across at maturity.
Choosing Your Fan Palm Houseplant
The healthier your plant is when you bring it home, the likelier it is to thrive when given the correct attention. Don’t choose plants with extremely dry soil, browning leaves, or apparent damage. Fan palms should have rich green foliage and an upright, healthy habit. Starting with a healthy plant will make it much easier to care for your new potted fan palm.
How to Grow Fan Palm Plants
Potting soil used for palm plants should be well draining and any container used for the plant should have ample drainage holes in the bottom. Soil should be moist at all times during the growing season, although it is essential to avoid over-saturation, which can lead to root rot. Growing fan palms isn’t difficult as long as you provide a room temperature of 55 to 60 degrees F. (13-16 C.). Keep indoor palm plants away from heating or cooling vents and ceiling fans that may cause temperature fluctuations. Unlike many other types of palms, fan palms do best with at least four hours of direct sunlight daily. A south or west facing window is best.
Fan Palm Care Tips
Allow the plant soil to dry out a little more in the winter than in the summer. A daily mist of water helps to keep humidity levels high. If frond tips become brown, the humidity is too low. A light fertilizer application from late winter through early fall helps fan palm plants remain vital. Spider mites like dusty foliage, so it is critical that fronds are wiped clean on a regular basis. If mites become a problem, use a soapy water mixture to control infestation.
