Trachycarpus fortunei - Chinese Windmill Palm

Trachycarpus fortunei is likely the hardiest palm, if not it runs a close second to the Chamaerops humilis. It certainly has not shown any sign of weakness here. The Chinese Windmill Palm is slow growing, especially by measure of the California Fan Palm that can be seen in the background of almost any Southern California photo. The Trachycarpus fortunei trunks are hairy and slender. The fronds are very close to being thorn free. This is a big plus if you work around many palms. With so many palms make you pay in blood at one time or another while you prune them. Trachycarpus fortunei is solitary. I have not seen a Windmill Palm put out pups. This makes maintenance much easier. Trachycarpus fortunei will grow a foot per less per year. At the beginning the seems like a detraction, but after a few years of trying to dispose of load after load of fronds this can add up to a big plus in a hurry.