Chinese windmill palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) tray-kee-KAR-pus for-TOON-ee-eye Genus:  Trachycarpus One of the hardiest palms, Chinese windmill palm has single stems with large, 4-foot-wide fans of sword-like leaves. It produces large plumes of yellow flowers in early summer; the flowers of female plants transform into bluish-black fruits. Chinese windmill palms may be shoot-hardy to Zone 6 if protected with 10 inches of mulch. With their rich fans and handsome habits, they make attractive specimens for formal outdoor spaces. These evergreen palms are native to the mountains and temperate regions of subtropical Asia. Plants can grow to 20 feet tall and 8 feet wide. Care:  Provide fertile, well-drained soil in full sun to light shade. Tolerates clay soil. Shelter from strong winds.  Propagation:  Sow seed at 75°F in spring or fall. Problems:  Spider mites, scale insects, leaf spots, root rot.

Overview

Height Over 30 ft. Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft. Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Early Summer Flower Color Yellow Foliage Color Evergreen Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Flowering Tree, Suitable as Annual, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Style Formal Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Tropicals