Trachycarpus fortunei
Trachycarpus fortunei
Trachycarpus fortunei
The Chusan Palm (Trachycarpus fortune) is names after the plant collector Robert Fortune, who observed the plant on Chusan Island, off the coast of central China in the 1840’s.
It is flowering in Edinburgh, the inflorescence is tucked away in the base of the foliage cluster at the top of the sturdy trunk. Comprising a pendulous inflorescence spike, covered in densely packed golden yellow flowers that resemble a block of honeycomb. Dioecious in habit, flowers on the female plants are followed by small black fruits if pollinated. The previous year’s inflorescence now dried remains, are also often visible. The foliage dries and drops from the fibre covered trunk, leaving a head of fan shaped leaves.
An easily grown plant for a well-drained soil that adds an exotic appearance to the garden. Often seen in coastal towns where the leaves get stripped and shredded by the salt laden winds.