So, when you think of trees on the westside of Oregon you probably think of evergreens, right? However, trees associated with more tropical locations also grow there. This is a Chinese windmill palm, Trachycarpus fortunei, growing at the Oregon Garden in Silverton.
Windmill palms have been cultivated in China and Japan for thousands of years so their exact natural range is difficult to determine. This hardy palm has been planted throughout the world. The tough leaf fibers of the Chinese windmill palm have been used in making rope, sacks, and coarse cloth.
Wind palm trees reach a height of 10-40 feet. In southern China, these palms grow at elevations as high as 7,874 feet. They tolerate cold temperatures, wind, salt, and drought.
It’s first time I have seen a photo of these trees. They look very interesting.
Yeah, they are pretty! I wish I could grow them at my house but it’s probably too dry and hot for them.
I have 2 Chinese Fan Palms in my garden
Cool, Brian! I’m envious. 🙂
Sweet looking but i live in northern Illinois and they would be too stressed here.
Yeah, I like how they look a lot, Tom. We have hot (and getting hotter) summers and cold winters so they probably wouldn’t grow here either.