Hainan Fan Palm

Hainan fan palm (Chuniophoenix hainanensis) is a clustering fan palm native to Hainan Island, China. Its slender stems carry large, deeply divided palmate leaves that give the plant a distinctive, architectural outline. ## Growth and setting A taxonomic revision measured stems from 2 to 8 metres tall, with an average near 4 metres; the species grows in lowland rainforest on steep slopes in Hainan. Its leaves are divided into roughly 20–28 segments, and the arching inflorescences can reach 2 metres. These measurements describe documented plants and can vary with growing conditions. ## Light and cultivation Palm grower references describe Chuniophoenix hainanensis as a larger species than C. nana and report that established plants can take more light, including full sun, while also growing in shade. The genus is associated with hot, wet summers and cool to mild winters. Use a warm, sheltered position with room for clustered stems and an open crown; in climates outside its native tropical to subtropical conditions, grow it in a protected setting. Sources: [Henderson, “A revision of Chuniophoenix”](https://www.mapress.com/phytotaxa/content/2015/f/pt00218p170.pdf), [Palm Grower’s Guide: Chuniophoenix](https://www.palmpedia.net/wiki/Category:CHUNIOPHOENIX). ## Maintenance Keep the growing site evenly supplied with moisture during active growth and allow excess water to drain. Remove only damaged or dead leaves, and provide enough overhead and side space for the mature crown.