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Trachycarpus princeps (Hybrid)
Stone Gate Palm
£39.95
Trachycarpus princeps is particularly close to our hearts as Martin Gibbons, founder of The Palm Centre, played a major part in its introduction to cultivation in the UK and Europe.
The Stone Gate palm, unlike other Trachycarpus species, has large fan shaped leaves and a thick, hairy trunk. The princeps is easily distinguished by the pale glaucous-white undersides to its leaves.
The plants available in our current stock are hybrids of Trachycarpus princeps with a close relative of unknown origin.
Plant Biography
Native to southwestern China, Trachycarpus princeps lives upon the steep cliffs and banks of the Nuijang river.
It has become a very popular palm in the UK climate both for its hardiness and its uniquely glaucous-white undersides to the leaves.
Palm trivia
Trachycarpus princeps' Introduction
The chance finding of a single line in an old Chinese plant book led Martin Gibbons and Tobias Spanner on several expeditions to southwestern China, discovering what was thought by the author to be Trachycarpus martianus was actually an unidentified, distinguishable species.
Along the banks of the Nujiang, on two almost vertical bare marble cliffs of the Stone Gate, Trachycarpus princpeps was discovered and, over several expeditions, eventually brought into cultivation in the UK and Europe.
Care & Size Guidance
The Stone Gate palm tolerates both full sun and cold better than Trachycarpus latisectus and martianus. Whilst it’s not as hardy as fortunei or wagnerianus, its certainly reliably hardy for UK gardens once it has been established.
Younger plants may benefit from fleece jacket protection whilst they become established.
The glaucous-white undersides of the leaves tend to become more pronounced as the plant matures.
Excellent, healthy plant. A good size. Very pleased. I’m a big fan of Princeps.
Martin –
Best price and quality from palm specialists. Plant came in very smart packaging and condition. Trachycarpus princeps is from my home country, Yunnan is a beautiful place and a must visit. Growing them in a bright conservatory hopefully I can do her justice <3
N. Li (verified owner) –
Very good condition, makes me want more but can’t afford it just yet, planted up already snd they look great, thanks.
James (verified owner) –