Trachycarpus fortunei (Windmill Palm)

Windmill Palm is the cold-hardiest true palm commonly grown in the Pacific Northwest, and one that genuinely thrives along the Oregon coast. The fan-shaped fronds emerge from a slender, fibrous trunk that gives the tree a classic tropical silhouette without the tropical climate requirements. Established specimens have survived temperatures well below freezing, making this the palm of choice for gardeners in Zones 7 and 8 who want a genuinely permanent tropical effect.

In a sheltered coastal garden, Windmill Palm grows steadily and can reach 20 to 30 feet over many years, though it stays quite manageable and narrow for a long time. The texture of the shaggy brown fiber that wraps the trunk adds interest even in winter when little else is happening in the garden. Plant in a location protected from the heaviest ocean winds, which can damage the fronds.

Windmill Palm is relatively low-maintenance once established. It appreciates good drainage and benefits from a slow-release fertilizer in spring. Remove older fronds as they brown naturally at the base, cutting close to the trunk. This is a plant that draws comments from every visitor to a garden, and for good reason.