Trachycarpus fortunei – Windmill Palm

The (Chinese) Windmill Palm, or Chusan Palm, has a single trunk-like stem covered with brown fibres and a whorl of fan-shaped, narrow, dark green leaves at the crown.

Trachycarpus fortunei is a fabulous tropical palm, very resilient and adaptable to all conditions. It works really well to create a tropical mood with other houseplants such as Banana or the Swiss Cheese Plant.

Trachycarpus fortunei – Windmill Palm Care & Info Guide

Horty Hints

Grow with the flow! Influence the size of this plant by altering its location. High sun = Short and stout. Lots of shade = Tall and narrow.

Feeling hot, hot, hot! The Windmill Palm is one of the palms that can handle some full sun. Providing direct early morning and late afternoon sunlight will increase growth rate.

Wave goodbye to the dry! A common problem with this palm is its tips drying out and turning brown. Mist frequently or place in a high humid environment away from frequent traffic.

Light

Trachycarpus fortunei prefers bright, indirect light. Ideally position for a few hours of direct morning or late afternoon sunshine and some partial shade. Move outdoors onto the patio in summer if desired.

Watering

Allow the top of the soil to become slightly dry between waterings. Do not allow the roots to sit in water. These plants can dry out quickly so keep an eye on the soil and water regularly during the summer. Less water is required in winter.

Temperature

The Windmill Palm is a very hardy plant and is reasonably happy in anything above 3C. Avoid exposing to wind if outdoors however, as this can easily damage the fronds.

Humidity

The Windmill Palm does well in normal household humidity, however it will thrive in higher humidity environments. Mist occasionally or relocate to the kitchen or bathroom for an added boost.

Feed

Feed only once or twice a year during the growing season. Do not over-feed your palm.View Plant Nutrition

Height & Growth Rate

Trachycarpus fortunei is a slow-growing palm indoors, and typically reaches an ultimate height of 2.5 metres. Outdoors these plants have been known to rise up to 10 metres tall.
Please note: each plant is unique so available heights are approximate and the plant you receive may vary by 10%.

Toxicity

This palm is considered non-toxic and is therefore safe around children and pets.

Air Purifying

Palms clean and improve air quality by filtering toxins from the surrounding environment.

Origin

Trachycarpus fortunei is native to South East Asia.Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.

It’s always somewhat surprising to see palms growing in and around the Portland metro area, and the Windmill Palm is one of the successful ones.