Overview
Chinese fan palm is a medium-size palm with a rounded crown of large fan leaves whose tips droop in ribbonlike segments.
Mature Size and Habit
It develops a single trunk and commonly reaches 20 to 30 feet tall with a canopy 10 to 15 feet wide.
Best Landscape Uses
Use it as a lawn specimen, poolside accent, or small shade palm with ample overhead and side clearance.
Sunlight
It grows in full sun or partial sun. Young palms benefit from some protection while establishing.
Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation
Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly during establishment. Mature palms tolerate short dry periods but look best with moderate irrigation.
Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida
Plant from spring through early fall to encourage root growth before cool weather.
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove only fully brown fronds and avoid over-pruning. Correct potassium and magnesium deficiencies with a palm-specific fertilizer.
Wildlife Value
Fruit can attract birds, and the crown provides shelter.
Cold and Heat Sensitivity
Established palms tolerate Tampa heat and brief cold better than many tropical palms, though freezes may burn foliage.
Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings
Leaf stalks can carry sharp teeth. Keep fronds away from narrow walks, play areas, and service access.
Invasive Concerns
This nonnative palm can produce abundant seedlings and has invasive concern in parts of Florida. Remove fruit stalks and volunteer seedlings where practical.
Helpful Resources
Local Delivery
Local delivery only in approved South Tampa ZIP codes. $600.00 minimum plant order. $100.00 flat delivery fee. Ecoscape will contact you to schedule delivery.
