About The Windmill Palm
The Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus Fortunei) is an evergreen species of palm tree native to subtropical and temperate regions of Asia. The Windmill Palm is a cold-hardy, slow growing variety with deep green fan shaped leaves. It can reach up to 40 feet in height when mature, but generally stays under 10 feet tall in gardens. The Windmill Palm can tolerate temperatures down to -5 degrees Fahrenheit and is an ideal choice for gardeners in colder climates. It is also relatively drought tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it a good choice for a low-maintenance landscape. The Windmill Palm is known for its unique fan shaped leaves, which can reach up to 3 feet in diameter. It also produces yellow flowers that attract birds and butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden.
This single trunk palm is covered with brown fibrous material that helps keep this palm insulated during the cold periods. Birds will pull on it to make their nests. The fronds/leaf fans out in a symmetrical appearance giving it the windmill shape. A good planting tip is to plant this palm in a semi-shaded area out of direct sun and wind. It is adaptable to many different kinds of soil but prefers well draining soil and if kept too wet the roots of this palm will rot. Fertilize 2 to 3 times per year for best performance. Windmill palms will grow 1-2 feet per year depending on sun exposure time, nutrients and soil conditions.
The Windmill Palm has been easy to find until recently and are relatively inexpensive landscaping option that adds a tropical feel to any landscape. Its unique fan shaped leaves make it a favorite among gardeners looking for something out of the ordinary. With its cold hardiness and low maintenance requirements, the Windmill Palm is an excellent choice for gardeners in temperate climates.
