Livistona chinensis, the Chinese fan palm or fountain palm, is a species of subtropical palm tree of east Asia. It is native to southern Japan, Taiwan, the Ryukyu Islands, southeastern China and Hainan.
Livistona chinensis can attain heights of about 9 to 15 m (30 to 50 ft) and a spread of 4 m (12 ft). The leaves are fan shaped. The palm is cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and conservatories. This plant can become a weed, or in some ecosystems an invasive species, in places such as Bermuda, Hawaii, Florida wetlands and on some Caribbean Islands.
Water thoroughly then allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Water less in winter when growth has slowed. Use filtered or distilled water because tap water may contain fluoride, chlorine and other chemicals that can damage palms. When watering, avoid getting the base of the palm wet to prevent rot. Use a container with drainage holes, and fast-draining potting mix to prevent soggy soil. Average room (around 40-50% relative humidity). Indoor air can become extremely dry, especially in winter. It's a good idea to use a humidity monitor near your palm, rather than guess. If air is dry, use a cool-mist room humidifier. It's the most efficient way to boost humidity for your houseplants.
Most indoor plants like a steady diet of liquid plant food, but not palms. Palms are slow-growing, especially indoors, and don't need much fertilizer. Feed with a slow-release fertilizer, such as Jobe's Indoor Palm Fertilizer food spikes once in spring and again in summer. It contains the micronutrients this palm needs to keep it lush and green.
Wondering whether to prune? Chinese fan palm doesn't need pruning to keep its shape. Never cut off its top. Unlike many plants, all new growth on palms is from the terminal tip, so cutting it off kills the stem. Older fronds may turn brown and should be removed. Cut off old fronds near the trunk, using sharp pruners. Don't pull them off, which can damage the tree.
The Chinese fan palm is one of the few frost resistant palm trees, and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F.
Whether it be plastic or clay, make sure the pot you select has drainage holes in the bottom to prevent over-watering.
