Chamaerops humilis

European fan palm
Chamaerops humilis

This is the only species of palm native to Europe, where it occurs on Mediterranean coasts from the southwest, in Spain and Portugal, through Malta, southern Italy and parts of France. This makes it northernmost wild palm on the planet.

Also known as the dwarf palm, the attractive compact shrub-like form arises as all the fan leaves emerge at the base. The leaf stalks bear sharp needle spines to protect these low-growing specimens from grazing animals. This dwarf nature makes it an elegant house plant. The leaves are used for basket weaving and the highly tannic fruits are used as a medical astringent.

This post is part of The World of Palms Glasshouse Trail