Windmill Palm
Trachycarpus fortunei is a fan palm native to central China, and has been cultivated for centuries as a source of strong fiber for rope making. The Windmill Palm Tree is one of the most popular landscape palms in the U.S. because it is the very cold hardy, being suitable for USDA zones 7 through 11. This tolerance for cool summers makes the Windmill Palm a favorite of palm enthusiasts and landscapers. It is also extremely tolerant of wind and salt, which makes it an ideal landscaping solution for the Florida coastal environment.
| Names | Windmill Palm, Chusan Palm, Chinese Windmill Palm |
| Plant Type | Solitary Palm Tree |
| Hardiness Zones | 7-11 |
| Light Needs | Full to partial shade. |
| Water Needs | Moderately drought resistant, prolonged drought will dramatically effect growth rate |
| Soil Needs | Moist, Well-Drained |
| Cold Tolerance | Extremely cold tolerant down to 5F |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Mature Height | 10 to 20 Feet |
General Care
Windmill Palms prefer moist and well-drained soil. Consistent watering will foster more rapid growth and affect the appearance of the plant for the better. For the best results, be sure to water regularly every other day for the first three months after transplanting, and at least weekly for the rest of the first year. Once established Windmill Palms require very little care and maintenance, though it is advised to apply a good quality palm fertilizer at the start of each growing season.
Design Ideas
With its slender trunk and gorgeous plume of beautiful fan-shaped palms up to four feet in diameter, the Windmill Palm is almost a must for Central Florida landscape designs. The Windmill Palm can be grown in full sun to partial shade, and though relatively slow-growing, should average six to 12 inches of new growth per year, and can reach up to 20 feet in height. The Windmill Palm can also be grown in containers, making it a versatile choice for landscape designers, and its extreme tolerance for wind and salt make it an ideal solution for inter-coastal or beachfront projects.
Keep it Green Nursery and Landscaping serves the landscaping needs of the entire Tampa area, including Apollo Beach, Riverview, Temple Terrace, Gibsonton, Brandon, Lithia and Bloomingdale.
