Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) delivers authentic resort style in surprisingly cool climates. Its slender, fiber‑clad trunk and large, fan‑shaped green fronds form a tight head that suits compact spaces, courtyards, and poolside settings. Durable and evergreen, it performs in full to partial sun and organically rich, very porous soils—establish with deep, regular watering, then enjoy a low‑maintenance specimen that brings tropical architecture to containers, rock gardens, and grouped plantings.
A single‑trunk, evergreen fan palm with a compact crown of stiff, windmill‑like fronds. The slender trunk is naturally wrapped in distinctive, hairy black fibers for extra texture and character.
Moderate growth; typically reaches about 25–30 ft. tall with an 8–10 ft. wide crown. Plan placements to allow for its mature canopy spread while preserving foot traffic and views.
Full sun to partial sun. Best form and density develop with plenty of light; in hotter exposures, consistent moisture and a porous soil mix support peak performance.
Provide organically rich, very porous, well‑drained soil. Keep evenly moist (not soggy) while establishing; once established, prefers regular water yet tolerates periodic drought.
USDA Zones 8–11. Evergreen habit offers structure in all seasons; in colder microclimates, choose a wind‑sheltered site with sharp drainage.
Large, fan‑shaped fronds create a bold architectural canopy. Yellow blooms in summer add seasonal detail without creating heavy litter.
Easy‑care and waterwise once established; deer and rabbit resistant; non‑toxic to cats and dogs—ideal near paths and patios.
Specimen or grouped grove; rock and gravel gardens; poolside focal point; frames entries and narrow side yards; dramatic container accent for patios and terraces.
Water deeply and regularly the first few growing seasons to establish a robust root system. Feed in early spring. Maintain a porous soil profile; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Use as a vertical column in small gardens or repeat in threes for a resort‑style grove. Its tight head and non‑branching habit make it perfect where overhead clearance is limited.
Choose large, well‑drained containers with a gritty, fast‑draining mix; irrigate thoroughly, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Trachycarpus fortunei is an exceptionally cold‑tolerant fan palm with palmate leaves and a shaggy, fiber‑clad trunk; summer flowers are showy and seasonal.
Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) delivers authentic resort style in surprisingly cool climates. Its slender, fiber‑clad trunk and large, fan‑shaped green fronds form a tight head that suits compact spaces, courtyards, and poolside settings. Durable and evergreen, it performs in full to partial sun and organically rich, very porous soils—establish with deep, regular watering, then enjoy a low‑maintenance specimen that brings tropical architecture to containers, rock gardens, and grouped plantings.
A single‑trunk, evergreen fan palm with a compact crown of stiff, windmill‑like fronds. The slender trunk is naturally wrapped in distinctive, hairy black fibers for extra texture and character.
Moderate growth; typically reaches about 25–30 ft. tall with an 8–10 ft. wide crown. Plan placements to allow for its mature canopy spread while preserving foot traffic and views.
Full sun to partial sun. Best form and density develop with plenty of light; in hotter exposures, consistent moisture and a porous soil mix support peak performance.
Provide organically rich, very porous, well‑drained soil. Keep evenly moist (not soggy) while establishing; once established, prefers regular water yet tolerates periodic drought.
USDA Zones 8–11. Evergreen habit offers structure in all seasons; in colder microclimates, choose a wind‑sheltered site with sharp drainage.
Large, fan‑shaped fronds create a bold architectural canopy. Yellow blooms in summer add seasonal detail without creating heavy litter.
Easy‑care and waterwise once established; deer and rabbit resistant; non‑toxic to cats and dogs—ideal near paths and patios.
Specimen or grouped grove; rock and gravel gardens; poolside focal point; frames entries and narrow side yards; dramatic container accent for patios and terraces.
Water deeply and regularly the first few growing seasons to establish a robust root system. Feed in early spring. Maintain a porous soil profile; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Use as a vertical column in small gardens or repeat in threes for a resort‑style grove. Its tight head and non‑branching habit make it perfect where overhead clearance is limited.
Choose large, well‑drained containers with a gritty, fast‑draining mix; irrigate thoroughly, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Trachycarpus fortunei is an exceptionally cold‑tolerant fan palm with palmate leaves and a shaggy, fiber‑clad trunk; summer flowers are showy and seasonal.