Chinese windmill palm overview
A fan palm famous for cold hardiness. Native to mountain forests of south-central China and northern Myanmar, it is the palm most often planted in USDA zone 7 landscapes.
Region of origin
South-central China to northern Myanmar
Native countries
Historical discovery
Robert Fortune collected plants in China in the 1840s. Hermann Wendland published the name Trachycarpus fortunei in 1861, honoring Fortune.
Names
Common names
Windmill palm, Chusan palm, Chinese fan palm, Chinese windmill palm
Synonyms
- Chamaerops fortunei Hook.
- Chamaerops excelsa (misapplied)
Cold hardiness
Survives about 5°F / -15°C. Outdoor range USDA 7a–11b. Hover or click a zone, state, or country. Switch the U.S. map between states and hardiness zones.
Highlighted USDA zones 7a–11b. Green countries can be grown outdoors.
United States
In range Too cold
World
Native Can be grown
Alaska and Hawaii are state outlines with their overall zone range. A country is painted if its mildest inhabited winter is at least one USDA step milder than this palm’s hardiness.
Scientific facts
- Fibrous leaf bases wrap the trunk like a coarse coat, one reason it shrugs off wind and frost.
- In the wild it can reach about 40 ft; in gardens it is usually 20–30 ft with a 10 ft crown.
- It is often sold as “Chinese fan palm,” a name also used for Livistona chinensis. Check the Latin name.
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Full care guide
The Chinese Windmill palm is known for its resilience, cold hardiness and fan-like spreading leaves. Originating from China and Japan, this palm species boasts iconic fan-shaped leaves. Its ability to withstand chilling temperatures as low as 5°F (-15°C) makes it a gem thriving in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 11. The windmill palm can reach up to 40 feet in the wild. The Windmill palm offers an elegant addition to both indoor and outdoor landscapes as far north as Southern Virginia.
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Common names:
Windmill palm, Chusan palm, Chinese fan palm, Chinese windmill palm
Scientific name:
Trachycarpus fortunei
Origin:
Originating from China and Japan.
Appearance:
Sporting iconic fan-shaped leaves, this palm species boasts a rich, deep green foliage.
Growth Rate:
Compared to some other palms, the Windmill palm grows at a moderate pace, adding about 6-10 inches to its trunk annually.
Max Growth Height:
While it can reach towering heights of up to 40 feet in the wild, cultivated ones typically stay within the 20-30 feet range.
Foliage Spread:
The Windmill palm’s foliage extends up to 10 feet, creating a broad canopy.
Cold Hardiness and Hardiness Zone:
Impressively cold-hardy, surviving temperatures as low as 5°F (-15°C), this palm thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 11.
Soil Type:
Adaptable to various soils, it flourishes in well-draining conditions, whether it’s sandy, loamy, or clay soil, as long as it doesn’t retain excess water.
Fruit and Flowering:
As it matures, small black fruits appear, attracting birds. Its petite, yellowish flowers emerge in late spring to early summer. The fruit is not edible for humans.
Can it Grow Indoors:
The Windmill palm makes a great indoor plant, especially in cooler climates. Bright, indirect sunlight suits it best for indoor cultivation.
Light Requirements:
When outdoors, partial shade to full sun suits this palm. While indoors, it thrives in bright indirect light.
Water Requirements:
Aim for moderate watering to keep the soil consistently moist without becoming waterlogged, preventing root rot.
Maintenance Level:
The Chinese fan palm is low-maintenance plant, requiring minimal pruning. Regular watering and seasonal fertilization with high quality palm-specific fertilizer foster its optimal growth.
Common Diseases/Pests:
Resilient against diseases and pests, occasional encounters with spider mites or scale insects may occur.
Plant Care:
Consistent watering, avoiding waterlogging, and occasional fertilization contribute to its growth.
Windmill Palm Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I grow a Windmill palm in a colder climate?
Yes, the Windmill palm is remarkably cold-hardy down to 5°F (-15°C).
2. Does the Windmill palm require frequent pruning?
No, this palm is relatively low-maintenance and requires minimal pruning. Though removing dead leaves may look nice, it isn’t necessary.
3. How often should I fertilize my Windmill palm?
Apply palm-specific fertilizer once in the Spring, Summer, and Fall.
4. Are Windmill palm fruits edible?
No, they are not edible.
5. Can Windmill palms survive windy conditions?
True to their name, Windmill palms are known for their resilience in windy conditions.
The Windmill palm’s ability to withstand diverse climates, coupled with its elegant appearance, makes it a versatile choice for indoor or outdoor settings. With care, it can become a focal point in any landscape or interior design.