Windmill Palm Trachycarpus fortunei

A palm tree in the Arecaceae family, this award-winning specimen brings a tropical flair to any landscape.  The windmill palm is native to subtropical and temperate mountain forests of China.  In the wild, it can reach heights ranging from 20' to 40' and sometimes taller.  In other locations, it typically tops out around 10' tall. 

It makes a great specimen plant or is effective in small groups. Use it to frame an entryway or garden path.  It has a solitary trunk that appears shaggy and hairy with leftover dried petioles from shed leaves.  Fibers from the leaves are often used in weaving.  The leaves spiraling out in all directions from the top of the plant resemble a windmill, hence the common name.  It can be grown in large containers and overwintered indoors in colder climates. In a protected location it is hardy to zone 7. 

Although it can be grown in full sun, a location that provides some shade and protection from strong or cold winds can be beneficial.  When no protection from strong wind is provided, the leaves tend to tear.  

This palm is moderately salt tolerant.

The genus name Trachycarpus derives from Greek and roughly translates to "rough fruit".

Propagation can be accomplished from seed, however both male and female plants are necessary for seed production.  

Seasonal Interest:

Foliage: Evergreen Bloom: Summer, June-July Bark: Winter 

Wildlife Value: This plant is seldom damaged by deer.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious insect or diseases problems.  There is some susceptible to scale and palm aphids.  Some issues of root rot may appear as well as yellowing disease and leaf spots.  For a palm, it has excellent winter hardiness but it may suffer in the cooler locations.

Quick ID

• Petioles sharply toothed
• Leaves palmately divided, 15-10 segments
• Leaf segments single-fold