Moroccan Blue Bush Fan Palm (Chamaerops humilis 'Cerifera')
A very exciting addition, this beautiful palm from the high Atlas Mountains of Morocco develops pale blue, waxy leaves, similar in color to those of the Mexican Blue Fan Palm (Brahea armata). It produces suckers, which in time create a bushy shape. Plant in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate temperatures down to 5º degrees F or lower when larger. Wind resistant, it really is an excellent outdoor palm. It is even more cold hardy than its green cousin the Mediterranean Fan Palm. and a delight in any garden. Growth rate: is very slow Height at maturity: is 5' to 7' Hardy to USDA Zone 7B
To plant and grow them west of the Cascade Mountains in the Pacific NW, you will need to make a mixture containing 50% good potting soil, with 25% landscape sand & 25% small pea gravel. Have the root ball raised about 1/4 out of the hole but mounded up with the soil mixture (never use beach sand in the soil mix). Plant in an area that will get early morning and mid day sun during the winter months. I recommend using a water meter the first few years.
