Chinese Fan Palm Care Guide
The Chinese Fan Palm is also known as Livistona Chinensis and the Fountain Palm!
Why People Love This Plant
This tropical palm is loved for the way it’s fronds arch up and then “spill” down, giving an appearance similar to fountain water! Better yet, these fronds can grow up to 40 to 60 inches long! The Chinese Fan Palm is a subtropical tree that can be found natively in southeast Asia and is commonly found in Japan, southeast China, Taiwan, or Hainan. It has popularity in South Africa as well as parts of the US too, Florida in particular! One thing to note, make sure to be extra careful when handling this plant as its leaves can be very sharp and cut you!
Your Guide to Care
Care: Fairly hardy, not too difficult or particular.
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Direct sunlight can burn its leaves. Try to avoid low light conditions as well as it will cause growth to slow significantly.
Water: Water your Chinese palm thoroughly when the top half or more of the soil feels dry to the touch. Be mindful not to overwater your plant. You should be able to water less during winter months. Once established your plant should have some drought tolerance, although it may not look its best during this time.
Temperature: 60 to 85F is the ideal temperature range. Try to avoid drafty windows and doors and cooling/heating vents as this plant is not a fan of drafts. While not ideal, this plant does have some cold resistance and should be able to survive temperatures of 15 to 20F. However, keep in mind it will show signs of damage in those temperatures.
Humidity: Average humidity or slightly above is preferred by this tropical palm! If your home or climate is dry make sure to provide some humidity.
Feeding: Fertilize every month during the spring and summer with a slow release fertilizer.
Bonus
This palm is pet friendly!
Chinese fan palms will grow towards the light, so make sure to rotate it (about a quarter turn once a week is recommended for even growth).
Tag us on Instagram @tropicalplantsofflorida with a Chinese Fan Palm selfie!
