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A much-loved fan palm that has been popular in Europe since Victorian times and makes a superb potted palm for the home or terrace. In warmer climates and over a period of years, it grows into a handsome, medium-sized tree with a slender trunk. The common name is something of a misnomer since it is actually native to Japan's Ryukyu Islands and Volcano Islands. The broad, lime green leaves have elegantly drooping and curled tips, which gives rise to its other name, "Fountain palm." The fruits, which are produced in large numbers, are blue. Livistona chinensis shows a good tolerance to cold and frost and may be used in the sheltered temperate garden, but will also happily accept hot and humid tropical conditions. Many of these palms have an excellent tolerance to cold and frost. Although most varieties enjoy moisture they are also fairly drought tolerant when established. Their long, smooth trunks flare attractively at the base and carry gracefully weeping crowns of foliage making Livistona especially impressive for streets and gardens.