Black Bamboo

Chusan palm - Trachycarpus fortunei  is one of the hardiest palms in the world.

It can grow 20 metres tall in its native Asian environment, although can take up to 100 years to reach that size.

The great big fan shaped leaves (which give the appearance of turning when they are in the wind, hence the name 'Windmill palm') can reach up to a metre across, protruding from the top of the rough, thick, hairy trunk.

The Chusan palm likes well drained fertile soil, in full or partial shade.

The palm grows much faster in very fertile soil, or if it is well watered and fed.

Because of its hardiness, it is suitable for many gardens in temperate zones.