Trachycarpus fortunei - Chinese windmill palm

Best-known fan palm in Europe

Native to China where winters can be severe and very cold, this fan palm is the most well known and most common palm for the cooler climate. Brought to Europe over 150 years ago it has been a feature of Europe's parks and gardens. Whilst this palms main claim to fame is its incredible resistance to cold it is also an attractive palm in its own right. Trachycarpus fortunei can withstand severe cold, mature palms have been known to recover from temperatures as low as -18C. As such, it's a great plant for beginners and enthusiasts alike!

This palm prefers cooler, temperate areas, and struggles in the tropics. It is not fussy, is easy to grow and adapts well to most situations, providing the soil is not prone to waterlogging. Initially quite slow, once it reaches trunking size growth is quite rapid, this palm tree is capable of growing up to 0.5 metre (2 feet) of trunk per year. It dislikes wind and should be planted in a wind-free part of the garden or it will look untidy. If the garden does not have shelter from wind we strongly recommend Trachycarpus wagnerianus as an alternative.

Together with Trachycarpus wagnerianus this is the easiest and most trouble free palm for our climate!