How to Grow Trachycarpus

Trachycarpus are dioecious evergreen palm trees with short, trunk like stems and linear leaves that divide to create a fan of green foliage. Small, white flowers on female plants appear during the spring followed on with sumptuous bulging fruits in the autumn. They are best suited to drought resistant gardens to create architecture and structure, but will also look fantastic as a feature in a container. You should expect to see your palm grow to an approximate height of 4m (13’) and a spread of 2m (6’) once they reach a mature age. (This is generally the size after 10 years). Trachycarpus are native to central China.

Trachycarpus are best planted in well-drained soil of loam, chalk and sand within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. They are best positioned in an area of full sun or part shade. Amend the planting area with rough sand as this will drain moisture away from the roots so that water is not retained and damaging the roots. Dig a hole that is deep enough to fit the root ball of your palm, aiming to cover the top by 2-3cm of soil. Water well once settled into place.

Trachycarpus should be fed well throughout active growth. Use a palm fertiliser combined with a general fertiliser, taking care not to spill any on the foliage as this will damage your palm. Apply a generous layer of mulch in the form of wood chippings or grass cuttings around the base of your Trachycarpus to encourage healthy growth and development. Generally, you will need to water your palm thoroughly and regularly, ensuring the soil is draining efficiently.

It is possible to propagate Trachycarpus by seed.