Is this Trachycarpus fortunei hardy enough for the UK climate?

Yes, the Trachycarpus fortunei (Chusan Palm) is exceptionally cold-hardy, surviving temperatures as low as -15°C. This mature 12-13ft specimen with a 200cm trunk is far more resilient to frost and winter winds than younger palms, making it a reliable choice for gardens across the UK.

Can I keep this 12-13ft palm tree in its 180L pot?

While this palm is currently thriving in its 130L-180L container, it will eventually perform best if planted in the ground to allow the roots to expand. If you choose to keep it in a pot, ensure you water it daily during the summer and apply a slow-release palm fertilizer in spring to maintain its health and color.

How fast will a palm with a 200cm trunk grow?

At this level of maturity, the trunk growth is slow, typically adding 5cm to 10cm per year. Instead of rapid height, the tree focuses its energy on producing a lush, dense canopy of evergreen fan leaves, maintaining its impressive architectural shape year-round.

What are the delivery requirements for a specimen this size?

Due to the 12-13ft height and the significant weight of the 180L root ball, this tree is delivered via a specialized pallet service. Please ensure you have clear access for a large delivery vehicle (7.5t or 18t truck) and have assistance available to move the tree to its final planting position.

An impressive architectural specimen, this Trachycarpus Fortunei (Chusan Palm) stands at a majestic 12–13ft. Featuring a massive 200cm clear, fibrous trunk, this fully hardy palm is the perfect focal point for UK Mediterranean-style gardens.

The Trachycarpus fortunei, also known as the Chusan or Windmill Palm, is the most popular hardy palm in the UK for a reason. This specific specimen is a rare find, boasting a 200cm clear trunk that has been nurtured for decades. Its fan-shaped, deep green fronds create a lush, tropical canopy that remains vibrant throughout the winter months.

Why Choose This 12–13ft Specimen?

Unlike smaller palms that take years to establish, this 12–13ft tree provides instant height and privacy. It is ideal for framing entrances, anchoring a Mediterranean border, or adding a luxury feel to a poolside or patio area. Because it is housed in a substantial 130L–180L pot, the root system is incredibly healthy, ensuring a seamless transition when planted in your garden.

Check our collection For more Hardy palm trees.

12-13ft Trachycarpus Fortunei Specimen Palm Tree | 200cm Clear Trunk | Hardy

SKU: PO-1213-TRAC-004

£799.99

Quantity

Feature	Details
Common Name	Windmill Palm, Chusan Palm
Botanical Name	Trachycarpus fortunei
Total Height	360cm - 400cm (12-13ft)
Trunk Height	200cm Clear Trunk
Pot Size	130 - 180 Litre
Growth Rate	Slow to Moderate
Foliage	Evergreen Fan Leaves
Position	Full Sun to Partial Shade

FeatureDetailFoliageEvergreen (Year-round interest)HardinessFully Hardy to -15°C (Ideal for UK)PositionFull Sun or Partial ShadeSoil TypeWell-drained, fertile soilMature HeightUp to 12m+ (Trunk adds 5-10cm/year)DeliveryFree UK Delivery (3-5 Working Days)

How to Care for Your Large Trachycarpus Fortunei

Planting:
Prefers well-drained soil. If planting in a pot, ensure excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Watering:
Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish strong roots. Once established, it becomes moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture.

Wind Protection:
Although very hardy, avoid extremely exposed or windswept locations to keep the fan leaves looking full and pristine.

Feeding:
Apply a slow-release palm fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to support healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Is the Trachycarpus fortunei hardy enough for UK winters?
Yes, the Trachycarpus fortunei (Chusan Palm) is one of the most cold-hardy palms in the world, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -15°C. As a mature specimen with a thick, fibrous 200cm trunk, it is far more resilient to cold snaps than younger palms and is perfectly suited to the British climate.

How do I plant a palm tree with a 200cm trunk?
For a tree of this size, dig a hole twice as wide as the 130L–180L pot and just as deep. Ensure the soil is well-drained—mix in horticultural grit or sand if you have heavy clay soil. Plant at the same depth as it was in the pot and avoid burying the trunk, as this can lead to rot.

Can I keep this 12–13ft palm in its 180L pot?
While this specimen is currently thriving in its container, it will perform best long-term when planted in the ground. However, it can remain in a large pot for several years. If container-grown, water daily during summer and apply a slow-release palm fertilizer to maintain nutrient levels.

How much maintenance does a mature Windmill Palm require?
This is a low-maintenance architectural plant. Simply prune the lower, older fronds as they naturally turn brown to maintain the clean “clear trunk” look. It is a slow-growing evergreen, providing year-round structure without quickly outgrowing its space.

What are the delivery requirements for a specimen of this size?
Due to its 12–13ft height and the weight of the 180L root ball, delivery is made via a specialised pallet service. Ensure there is clear access for a large delivery vehicle. We recommend having at least two people or a heavy-duty sack truck available to position the tree.

How fast will the trunk grow once it reaches 200cm?
At this stage of maturity, the trunk typically grows around 5–10cm per year. Growth becomes slower vertically, with more energy directed into producing a dense, lush canopy of new fan leaves each spring.