Species

Trachycarpus fortuneiWindmill Palm

4 other cultivars

tree

Bulgaria Windmill Palm

Trachycarpus fortunei 'Bulgaria'

The Story

Plant Bio

Trachycarpus fortunei, commonly known as the Chinese windmill palm, is a hardy, slender palm with fan-shaped leaves and a robust trunk, often used as an ornamental tree in temperate climates.

The Bulgaria cultivar is distinguished by its particularly dense, lush foliage and increased cold tolerance, making it well-suited for outdoor cultivation in cooler regions.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a striking, tropical look year-round, with evergreen fronds adding structure and texture.

Cold-hardy and drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal maintenance.

Supports local biodiversity by providing habitat for birds and beneficial insects.

SpeciesTrachycarpus fortuneiWindmill Palm

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

180 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

China, Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a well-drained site with partial sun exposure.
Tuck young plants into the soil, ensuring roots are spread evenly.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist for 2 weeks.
Mist foliage during dry spells to maintain humidity.
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage and protect from harsh winter winds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during the growing season 💧
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune dead or damaged fronds in late winter

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t fertilize during dormancy
Never expose to standing water

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, architectural evergreen backdropExotic tropical accentSeaside garden border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese maples Ornamental grasses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bulgaria Windmill Palm questions

What zones can Bulgaria Windmill Palm grow in?

Bulgaria Windmill Palm is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bulgaria Windmill Palm deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Bulgaria Windmill Palm, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Bulgaria Windmill Palm bloom?

Bulgaria Windmill Palm typically blooms in early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Bulgaria Windmill Palm need full sun?

Bulgaria Windmill Palm does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Bulgaria Windmill Palm drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bulgaria Windmill Palm handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.