INTRODUCTION

Scientifically known as the Trachycarpus fortune, this tree typically reaches a height of 10-20 feet, but occasionally grows upwards of 40-feet. The Windmill Palm is a very slow-growing palm, and it’s trunk is covered in hair-like fibers. Three-foot-wide fronds extend from rough-edged petioles that are approximately half a foot long. The Windmill Palm is ideal for an entryway or as a framing accent.

The Windmill Palm is hardy enough to withstand 10-degrees F or lower, and does well in confined areas. Ideally the Windmill Palm will be grown in the relative shade and on fertile soil, however it will tolerate full-sun provided it is watered regularly.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Botanical Name: Trachycarpus fortunei
Pronunciation: tray-kee-KAR-pus FOR-too-nee-eye
Common Name(s): Windmill Palm
Family: Arecaceae
USDA Hardiness Zones: 8 through 11
Origin: not native to North America
Uses: container or above-ground planter; suitable for growing indoors; near a deck or patio; specimen; no proven urban tolerance
Availability: generally available in many areas within its hardiness range

USE AND MANAGEMENT

Windmill Palm should be grown in shade or partial shade on fertile soil to look its best, but it is also tolerant of full sun on well-drained soils when given ample moisture in the northern part of its range.

Plants should be watered faithfully.

Protection from harsh winds will minimize leaf tearing, but plants can be used successfully close to the shore, being quite tolerant of salt and wind. There are fine examples of mass plantings where palms are spaced six to 10 feet apart around a patio or sitting area. They have also been used very successfully lining an entry walk to a large building. This adds a formal elegance to any structure, especially one with a glass facade.

Propagation is by seed.

 

PESTS

Scales and palm aphids are pests of Windmill Palm.

DISEASES

Windmill Palm may be infected by root rot, moderately susceptible to lethal yellowing disease, and leaf spots.