The Trachycarpus Fortunei, also known as the Chinese windmill palm or Chusan palm, is a fascinating palm species that can add a dramatic tropical flair to gardens and landscapes. As one of the most cold-hardy palm species, the Chinese windmill palm can survive frigid winters in many temperate regions. With its attractive fan-shaped leaves and shaggy trunk, this palm makes a striking accent plant.
Description and Origins
The Trachycarpus Fortunei is part of the Arecaceae family and is native to parts of China, Japan, Myanmar, and India. It grows at high altitudes between 100-2400 meters in its native habitat. The palm can reach up to 12-20 meters in height with solitary trunks measuring 30cm in diameter. The trunk appears hairy and shaggy due to the persistent dried leaf bases clinging to the surface.
The leaves are palmate with segments emerging from a single point like fingers from the palm of a hand The leaves can reach 1-1.9 meters long with petioles measuring 60-100cm The leaflets themselves can grow up to 90cm long and have a glaucous hue.
The Chinese windmill palm produces small yellow male flowers and green female flowers on large branched panicles up to 1 meter long The fruits are kidney-shaped drupes around 1cm long that ripen to a blue-black color in autumn.
This species has an extensive history of cultivation in China and Japan where its strong fibrous leaves were used for weaving. The origin of its English name comes from the Chusan Islands where the plant was first introduced to Europe in the 1800s by famed Scottish plant hunter Robert Fortune.
Growing Conditions
The Trachycarpus Fortunei is one of the most cold tolerant palm species, surviving winter temperatures down to -15C. However, young plants are less hardy and can experience damage at -8C. This cold hardiness makes the Chinese windmill palm a popular garden plant for temperate and subtropical climates.
These palms grow best in locations with partial shade or protection from strong winds which can damage the leaves. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. The plants are moderately tolerant of salty conditions. Container-grown plants can be overwintered indoors in colder regions.
Popular Varieties
Numerous cultivars of the Chinese windmill palm have been developed. The ‘Wagnerianus’ is a dwarf variety growing under 5 meters tall with smaller stiffer leaves. It is even more wind and cold tolerant than the species.
The ‘Hayes Stiffie’ is another cultivar with stiff upright leaflets for a formal appearance. It grows taller than the ‘Wagnerianus’ and has good cold hardiness.
Uses in Landscaping
The Chinese windmill palm makes an excellent accent plant for tropical garden themes. It can be used as a specimen plant or in small groupings for textural interest. The shaggy trunk provides great winter appeal after the palm drops its leaves.
These palms are ideal for framing entryways, patios, pool areas, and walkways. Their tolerance for wind and cold allows them to thrive in challenging exposed locations. Dwarf varieties work nicely in containers.
Overall, the Trachycarpus Fortunei offers unique tropical flair for gardens in temperate climates. It’s an architectural plant that stands out from typical ornamentals. With the right conditions, the Chinese windmill palm can grow for decades to become a focal point in the landscape.
Care and Maintenance
Fortunately, the Trachycarpus Fortunei is relatively easy to care for once established. It requires moist well-draining soil and appreciates mulch to retain moisture. Watering needs will depend on the climate but soil should not be allowed to completely dry out. Apply balanced palm fertilizer in spring and summer.
Prune off old dried leaves and spent flower stalks to keep the area neat. In very cold winters, wrap the trunks of younger plants to protect from freeze damage.
Monitor for fungal issues like root rot if overwatered and treat with fungicides if necessary. Scale insects and mites may sometimes bother the foliage. Pruning for airflow and using horticultural oils help control pests.
With proper siting and care, the Chinese windmill palm can grow for 100 years or longer. It’s a durable palm that adds bold exotic architecture to gardens not suited for more delicate tropical plants. The Trachycarpus Fortunei brings the feeling of the tropics to backyards and landscapes throughout temperate regions.
The Best Cold Hardy Palm
Why Windmill Palm Trees?
Thanks to this fresh variety, the Palm isnt relegated to only tropical locales. For people who live in colder places but still want an island-style look, the Windmill Palm is a dream come true. It is one of the hardiest palms on the market right now. Northern gardening climates, even in growing zone 7, are still able to grow this stunning island beauty. And not only is Windmill Palm cold tolerant, but its also unbelievably low-maintenance and naturally pest resistant, too. Plus, its got the good looks to match its effortless ease. Magnificent in stature, the Windmill Palm has fresh, fan-like fronds that are arranged symmetrically in a bunched group. This grows on top of the trunk and can get up to 10 feet wide, making a crown of beautiful green leaves. Why FastGrowingTrees. com is Better.
For starters, its versatile. A slow-growing species, the Windmill Palm is well-suited as an accent piece framing your deck, pool or driveway. You can also grow a Windmill Palm on your patio or front porch by putting it in a big pot.
In addition, it can grow in a variety of soils and doesn’t need much care, so you don’t have to do much for this tropical beauty to thrive. This and more is possible because we planted, grew, and shipped your Windmill Palm Tree with great care. We did all the hard work at the nursery so that you can have a tried-and-true plant that does well in your yard. The Windmill Palm is thought to be the best landscape plant because it is easy to care for and looks exotic, adding instant tropical appeal to any space. The opportunities to use this gorgeous tree are endless, so order your very own Windmill Palm today!.
Want to add more palm trees to your collection? Read our guide to the most common types of palm trees.
Full Planting & Care Instructions
1. When planting, you don’t have to repot your plant right away. You’ll only have to do it every other year or so, when your Palm outgrows its shipped container or original pot. Increase the pot size by 2 inches each time you repot to accommodate new growth. The Windmill palm can get pretty big, so if you start it out in a pot, make sure you plan to plant it in the ground eventually. Â.
If growing outdoors make sure you give the palm well-draining soil and adequate space above to grow.Â
2. Watering: If you keep your palm indoors, mist it once a week in addition to watering it regularly. This will mimic the humid environment it is used to in your home. If youre not sure when to water, simply check the soil about 2 inches down. If the soil is dry here, its time to water.
FGT Tip:Â If fronds begin to yellow, it could be a sign of overwatering. If you see yellowed fronds, allow time for the soil to dry before watering your plant again. Browning fronds, however, mean that your Palm is not getting enough water and needs more. Using a well-draining potting mix is key in getting this balance.
3. Pruning:Â Simply any fronds as they turn yellow or brown. This improves the look of your plant and creates clean space for healthier green fronds to grow.
4. Fertilizing:Â You can apply palm fertilizers that contain specific nutrients best suited for palms. For faster growth in the spring and summer, you can also use a balanced fertilizer, like one with an 8-8-8 formula.
Estimated Shipping Time: Most orders ship immediately. As noted on the website, some items are seasonal, and may only ship in spring or fall. Once your order is shipped, youll receive an email with a tracking number.
| Amount of Order | Shipping Charge |
|---|---|
| Less than $ 99 | $19.95 |
| $ 99 + | FREE SHIPPING! |
| Mature Height : | 20-40 ft |
| Mature Width : | 6-15 ft |
| Sunlight : | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate : | Slow Growing |
| Botanical Name : | Trachycarpus fortunei |
| Does Not Ship To : | AZ |
| Grows Well In Zones : | 7-11 outdoors |
Trachycarpus fortunei – Chinese windmill palm
FAQ
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