Livistona chinensis

Common names

Chinese Fan Palm, Fountain Palm.

Curiosities

Origin

China, Taiwan and Japan (Volcano Islands, Ryukyu Islands, Bonin and Kyushu).

Habitat

Threatened in habitat. Grows in subtropical forests.

Morphology

A single trunk, up to 10-15 m tall. Deeply divided leaves, short inflorescence. Fruits usually ovoid, bluish green. Some varieties, like subglobosa have rounded fruits and the variety boninensis pear-shaped fruits.

Climate

Temperate to tropical, frost resistant. This palm has tolerated temperatures down to –7.2ºC (19ºF, USDA Zone 8b).

Germination

Rather good and in good percentage.

Growing

Widely cultivated all over the world because of its resistance. Prefers shade or light shade. Can be grown inside as a youngster, but needs low light intensity. Seen as a slow grower, but will do well in good conditions.