Trachycarpus fortunei – The Chinese fan palm
Trachycarpus fortunei, also known as the windmill palm or Chusan palm, is one of the most cold-hardy palms in the world. With its fan-shaped leaves and fibrous trunk, this palm adds a tropical touch to gardens well beyond the Mediterranean. It remains evergreen year-round and thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Origin and History
This palm is native to the mountainous regions of China, Japan, Myanmar, and the Himalayas. It was introduced to Europe in the 19th century, where it quickly gained popularity as a hardy ornamental palm capable of surviving frost and even snow.
DATA SHEET
Botanical specifications
- Botanical name: Trachycarpus fortunei
- Common names: Windmill palm, Chusan palm
- Type: Evergreen palm with a single trunk
- Growth rate: 15–30 cm (6–12 inches) per year under good conditions
- Mature height: 10–12 m (30–40 ft) Spread: 2–3 m (6–10 ft) crown width
- Leaf type: Fan-shaped leaves up to 1 m (3 ft) wide
- Cold hardiness: down to −15 °C to −18 °C (5 °F to 0 °F)
- Lifespan: Can live for many decades with proper care
Care
- Light: Full sun to partial shade. The foliage looks best in bright light.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained soils; tolerates clay if it is not waterlogged.
- Watering: Keep moist when young; drought-tolerant once established.
- Fertilisation: Apply a balanced palm fertiliser in spring and summer.
- Pruning: Remove old brown leaves as needed; avoid cutting close to the crown.
- Winter tips: Protect young palms with mulch or fleece during severe frosts.
Benefits and Uses
- Very cold-hardy for a palm.
- Evergreen, architectural appearance year-round.
- Low maintenance once established.
- Performs well in urban gardens, coastal areas, and courtyards.
- Ideal for large pots, terraces, and balconies.
Landscaping inspiration
The windmill palm can be used in many ways:
- As a centrepiece or focal point in the garden
- In rows along driveways and paths for a formal look
- In large pots on terraces or balconies
- Combined with exotic plants such as bananas, cordylines, or ornamental grasses
Common issues and solutions
- Yellowing leaves: Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage → Improve soil aeration.
- Frost damage (young palms): Protect the crown with fleece during extreme cold.
- Pests (rare): Occasionally affected by scale insects or spider mites → Treat with horticultural oil.
Availability and sizes
We offer Trachycarpus fortunei palms in different sizes
- 0 – 10 cm
- 10 – 30 cm
- 30 – 50 cm
- 50 – 75 cm
- 75 – 100 cm
- 100 – 150 cm
Contact
Leave your contact details if you are interested in this palm, and we will get in touch as soon as possible.
Our Philosophy
«We cultivate each plant as we live: chemical-free, using green energy, and with complete respect for nature.»
«We are not in a hurry, we do not pollute: we cultivate with purpose, for a greener future.»
Pepe Ruiz Camps, Owner
