This is the only native European palm, and grows along the Mediterranean coast, where it endures periods of extreme drought. This palm is very popular in Europe as it is one of the most cold-resistant species, even withstanding severe frosts.

Chamaerops humilis prefers places where water drains well, but it also seems to adapt well to shady, moist, non-water-holding sites.
This is probably the most suitable palm to grow in a tub, where it can survive drought, heat, cold and long periods of neglect.
 
It is a highly variable species, usually multi-stemmed. It also occasionally occurs with 1 trunk growing up to about 3 metres tall. The palm has small hand-shaped leaves 50 cm long, located at the end of a heavily thorny petiole.