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Cold-hardy temperate palm, one of the most widely cultivated in cooler climates
Trachycarpus fortunei, commonly known as the Windmill Palm or Chusan Palm, is one of the most widely cultivated palms in temperate climates. Native to the mountainous regions of central and eastern China, this palm is celebrated for its cold hardiness, making it a popular choice for gardens in cooler regions. It is named after the Scottish botanist Robert Fortune, who introduced it to Europe in the 19th century.
The Windmill Palm typically grows to a height of 10–20 meters (30–65 feet), with a slender, fibrous trunk that is covered in a coarse mat of brown fibers. The crown of the palm is made up of large, fan-shaped leaves that are dark green on top and slightly silvery underneath. Each leaf can grow up to 1 meter (3 feet) across, creating a lush, tropical appearance.
This palm is dioecious, meaning it has separate male and female plants. It produces small, fragrant, yellow flowers in large clusters during the spring and summer. If both male and female plants are present, the female plant will produce blue-black, pea-sized fruits.
Trachycarpus fortunei thrives in full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate some shade, it grows best with plenty of sunlight, which helps it maintain a healthy, dense crown. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal for optimal growth.
This palm is exceptionally cold-hardy for a palm, tolerating temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F). It is suitable for USDA zones 7–11, making it ideal for temperate climates. Mature plants are more tolerant of cold than younger specimens.
The Windmill Palm prefers well-draining soil but is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It performs best in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot, especially in wet climates.
Trachycarpus fortunei enjoys regular watering, particularly during the growing season. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance and can survive with less frequent watering.
When planting outdoors, choose a location with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. This palm can be planted as a specimen tree or in groups for a dramatic effect. Allow space for mature growth—at least 3–4 meters distance from other structures or plants.
For container growth, use a large pot with drainage holes and a palm-specific potting mix. Young plants can thrive in containers for several years before requiring planting in the ground. Ensure adequate drainage and water during the growing season.
Fertilize Trachycarpus fortunei with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer. Apply every 2–3 months to promote healthy growth. A palm-specific fertilizer with micronutrients ensures optimal nutrition and vibrant foliage.
This palm requires minimal maintenance. Prune off any dead or damaged fronds to maintain its appearance and encourage new growth. The fibrous trunk does not need to be stripped, but it can be cleaned up for aesthetic purposes if desired. Remove lower dead fronds as they age.
Fresh seeds of Trachycarpus fortunei should be soaked in warm water for 24–48 hours before planting to help soften the seed coat and improve germination. This process speeds up the germination timeline considerably and increases success rates.
Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Plant the seeds about 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches) deep and cover lightly with soil. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand creates excellent drainage and aeration for germinating seeds.
Place the seed tray in a warm environment with temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F). Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination may take several weeks to a few months depending on seed freshness and temperature stability.
Once seedlings emerge, provide them with bright, indirect light. As they grow, gradually acclimate them to more direct sunlight over several weeks. Transplant seedlings into larger pots or directly into the garden when they are large enough to handle—typically after 2–3 months of growth.
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At VIRIAR, we specialize in delivering premium tropical plants, exotic palms, and rare seeds from our nursery in Topoľníky, Slovakia to plant enthusiasts worldwide. Every shipment is carefully packaged with phytosanitary certificates and expert care instructions to ensure your plants arrive healthy and ready to thrive.
We've perfected the art of shipping live tropical plants internationally. Each plant is bare-rooted, wrapped in protective materials, and shipped with moisture-retaining packaging. Our plants are quarantine-certified and come with all necessary documentation for customs clearance.
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