Trachycarpus fortunei
Chusan Palm, Chinese Windmill Palm, Fan palm, Hemp palm
Also known as Chamaerops fortunei, Chamaerops excelsa, Trachycarpus Palm
- Height × spread
- 10m × 3m
- Position
- Full sun
- Hardiness
- Cold to -15C (RHS H5)
Availability
Generally available in Spring & Summer
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
This is almost the ultimate statement with regard to exotic looking plants. It is a very striking palm tree with sturdy trunk and an array of fan-shaped leaves, each divided into long, slender, splayed out fingers. When the wind blows, the leaves rustle with a chattering sound. It starts off with huge leaves spread out near ground level, then gradually hoists itself up on its hairy trunk, shedding old leaves as it ascends. There are spectacular specimens in the wonderful Logan Botanic Garden, in Scotland. They are sometimes seen with daffodils growing at their feet, to strange effect.
- Foliage colour
- Green
- Stem colour
- Green
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- No
- Shape
- Cone
- Height
- 10m
- Spread
- 3m
- Height in 10 years
- 5m
- Spread in 10 years
- 2m
- Evergreen
- Evergreen
- Garden style
- Seaside garden, Mediterranean garden, Exotic garden, Conservatory
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun, tolerates part shade, tolerates light shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- All types
- Drainage
- Well drained soil, Drought resistant
- Hardiness
- Cold to -15C (RHS H5)
- Borders & containers
- Borders and containers
- Use for
- Architectural
- Hazards
- No
Spring
Spring - late · Outdoors
Feed young plants with slow release fertiliser
Spread a slow release fertiliser around the base of the plant to the edge of the foliage spread, so that it can feed the roots. It is helpful for this to be applied for several years.
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost until the plant becomes well established.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water during dry periods
For plants in the ground, when there has been little or no rain for a period of 7-10 days and the soil is dry, give it a deep watering and repeat weekly until there is a downpour of rain. Check plants in pots more frequently, especially in hot weather.