Trachycarpus fortunei

Trachycarpus Fortunei, an elegant and easy to grow palm

Trachycarpus Fortunei, a palm with palmate leaves, is a great favourite in our European ornamental gardens. This tall, slender tree is hardy and can become a major part of your garden for many years to come. The easiest palm to grow in our climate!
 

Hardy

Trachycarpus Fortunei is native to eastern China, where it is subjected to harsh winters. It is also known as Chinese Palm, Hemp Palm or Windmill Palm. This palm prefers cold areas and adapts well to various conditions. It has been grown and planted successfully in countries with much colder climates such as Canada and Sweden. It is an ideal palm for Nordic gardens. With a little protection, it can endure temperatures of -17 ° C.
 
This palm tree prefers to grow in wind-sheltered areas. When planted in rich and fresh soil, its growth will be optimal.

At the beginning growth will be slow, but once the trunk has been formed, the tree can grow one meter (3 feet) in height every two years, to up to a total height of 12 meters (36 feet). Its trunk will be covered with brown fibers which give it its characteristic look.
 
If your garden is too exposed, we recommend Trachycarpus wagnerianus as a good alternative.

This palm gives a fantastic impression with its rough, fibre trunk. This trunk can reach heights of aproximately 10 - 12 metres (33-40 feet) high. The trunk tends to be a bit smaller at the bottom and broader near the crown.

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. It can handle salty ground moderately, so Trachycarpus fortunei should have no problem surviving near the sea or ocean. All together makes for an enduring palm which has grown even in cold oceanic climates of areas. Trachycarpus Fortunei even grows on the Faroe Islands at 62°N latitude.

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.