Hardy palms for the garden – these 5 species can withstand frost down to -15 °C
Hardy palm trees for the garden in Germany? I have tried it – with success. In this article, I show you my best frost-resistant palm species for German gardens that can be planted out permanently or kept in containers. I present five tried-and-tested palm species, hardy down to -15 degrees, and explain what is important when planting, caring for and overwintering them.
Anyone looking for exotic hardy palms for Central Europe will find practical tips, specific product recommendations and personal experiences from my garden here.
What you can expect in this blog post – at a glance
- My experience with hardy palm trees for the garden in Germany
- Selection of 5 robust palm species, hardy to -15 °C or more
- Differences between keeping in containers and planting out in the open
- Tips on care, fertilization and correct watering
- Detailed instructions for winterizing palm trees
- Tips for spring care after winter
- Recommendations for suitable locations and soil conditions
- Personal assessment of price-performance ratio and availability
- Reference to helpful specialist literature on palm care
- Ideas for Mediterranean flair in your own garden – even in Central Europe
My selection
- Best overall rating: Trachycarpus Fortunei Chinese fan palm
- Best price-performance ratio: Extremely frost-hardy Trachycarpus geminisectus
- Best beginner’s friend: Rare palm cross Trachycarpus Fortunei/Wagnerianus
- Most beautiful appearance: Phoenix canariensis, Canary Island date palm
- Smallest palm: Chamaerops Humilis | Dwarf palm
Planting hardy palm trees in the garden: Mediterranean flair in Central Europe
Over the past few years, I have experimented intensively in my garden in central Germany to find out which palm species are suitable for our central European climate. The region where I live is characterized by moderate temperatures, with average summer highs of around 24 °C and winter lows that rarely fall below -11 °C. Nevertheless, there have also been cold spells of -20°C in recent winters, which affect the vegetation.
To give my garden a Mediterranean flair, I built a pool with an adjoining terrace and a garden kitchen. The integration of palm trees and other tropical plants was a central concern in order to create a vacation atmosphere. My aim was to plant these plants permanently so that they could withstand the local climatic conditions.
In my blog post Palm trees for the pool – vacation atmosphere in your own garden, I shared my experiences with cultivating hardy palm species. In particular, choosing the right type of palm, such as the Wagner palm, and taking appropriate care measures makes it possible to create a garden with Mediterranean flair in Germany too.
A helpful book that has supported me in the selection and care of hardy palms is “Winterharte Palmen” by Mario Stähler. It offers valuable information and tips for the successful cultivation of these exotic plants in our latitudes.
Potted or planted out? Planting and overwintering hardy palms correctly
Palm trees in the garden? For many, this sounds like vacation, sun and Mediterranean flair – but also like sensitive plants that can’t cope with the German winter. I have tried it out and can say: it works. Several hardy palms have been growing in my garden for years, which can easily withstand frosts down to -15 °C and more. Some are permanently planted out in the open, others I keep in a tub, which has different requirements in each case.
Palms in containers vs. planted out in the open
The biggest difference between keeping them in containers and planting them out permanently lies in the flexibility and effort required for overwintering.
Palm tree in a tub
Advantages:
- Flexible installation (terrace, pool area, corner of the house)
- Can be moved to a sheltered place in winter (e.g. conservatory, unheated cellar)
- Lower risk for sensitive species
Disadvantages:
- Limited root volume due to the tub
- More watering and fertilizing in summer
- Potted plants are more susceptible to frost as the root area freezes through more quickly
Prerequisites:
A permeable, well-drained substrate is essential – waterlogging in containers quickly leads to root rot. The tub should also be frost-resistant and as insulating as possible.
Planted palm tree in the garden
Advantages:
- Less maintenance required in summer (deeper-rooted plants take better care of themselves)
- Natural growth and stability
- Permanent element in the garden – ideal for Mediterranean flair
Disadvantages:
- No possibility to rearrange
- Greater effort required for winter protection during severe cold snaps
- The root area of the palm tree must be specially protected (e.g. with bark mulch or fleece)
Prerequisites:
A well-drained, sandy-loamy soil is ideal. The location should be sunny and sheltered from the wind – e.g. against a house wall or in a sheltered corner of the garden.
Regardless of the type of cultivation, choosing the right hardy palm is crucial. While sensitive palm species in Germany can only be brought through the winter with a great deal of effort, real outdoor palms such as Trachycarpus fortunei or Chamaerops humilis are much more resistant and ideally suited to the Central European climate.
Caring for hardy palms: Watering, fertilizing and pruning in containers and outdoors
When it comes to care, planted palms and palms in containers differ in a few ways.
Planted palms benefit from the natural water balance of the soil and only require additional water during longer dry periods. I usually only water in midsummer, when it doesn’t rain for weeks.
Fertilize every six weeks or so in spring and summer with a special palm fertilizer that contains sufficient potassium and magnesium – this strengthens frost resistance in winter. Heavy pruning is not necessary. I only remove dried fronds and take care not to damage the sensitive heart of the palm.
The care requirements for potted palms are somewhat higher.
The limited root space means that the palm tree dries out more quickly and needs to be watered regularly – almost daily, especially on hot days. Waterlogging should be avoided at all costs, so a good drainage layer in the pot is essential.
Fertilizers are also applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. The same applies here: only remove dead or damaged fronds – the palm tree regenerates best if its natural growth is not disturbed.
My selection of the top 5 hardy palm species for the garden
I used various criteria to select the best hardy palm species: the most decisive factor for me was frost tolerance – many of my plants have to withstand temperatures down to -15 °C or even lower in winter.
Ease of care was just as important, because palm trees should not only look good in my garden, but also thrive without much effort.
I not only took my own experiences into account, but also looked at customer reviews, growth behavior, price-performance ratio and availability in the trade.
The result is a selection of five robust and decorative palms that work well both in containers and planted out in the garden – and are ideal for our Central European climate.
Trachycarpus Fortunei x Wagnerianus – Hardy palm cross with compact growth habit
This special palm cross combines two of the most popular hardy palm species: the vigorously growing Chinese hemp palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) and the compact, wind-resistant Wagner palm(Trachycarpus wagnerianus). This cross-breed originated in China and was specially developed for regions with colder climates. Thanks to its genetic combination, it has the best characteristics of both species: a high frost tolerance of up to -18 °C, robust growth and a particularly dense, stable frond structure.
What makes this hardy palm special is its compact, stable growth, which makes it safe even in windy or snowy conditions. In contrast to the pure Fortunei, it has a somewhat stockier appearance, which makes it ideal for smaller gardens, terraces or containers. At the same time, its typical deep green fan leaves give it a distinct tropical look that blends perfectly into Mediterranean garden designs. It is particularly easy to care for and is also suitable for beginners.
Customer opinions on Trachycarpus Fortunei x Wagnerianus
The feedback is consistently positive. The health of the plant during shipping, the well-rooted root balls and the good packaging are particularly frequently emphasized. The high adaptability to different locations is also praised.
- “Exactly as described, beautiful, strong plant. Highly recommended.” – ★★★★★
- “The palm tree is rooted and very healthy. The price-performance ratio is very good.” – Robert Algner
Why this palm tree is a good choice:
- Hardy to -18 °C, ideal for harsher climates
- Compact growth – perfect for containers or smaller areas
- Low maintenance, very suitable for beginners
- Sustainable and robust – contributes to biodiversity in the garden
- Adaptable to soil, location and weather conditions
This hybrid is one of the most reliable palms suitable for outdoor cultivation in Central Europe. It grows very well both when planted out and in containers, is easy to care for and brings a lasting touch of vacation flair to your own garden. If you want to plant a hardy palm that is a little more compact than the classic Fortunei, you will find a really strong alternative here.
- Trachycarpus Fortunei gekreuzt mit Trachycarpus Wagnerianus. Diese seltene Palme wird in einer Gesamthöhe inklusive Topf von circa 140-160 cm , mit einem kräftigem Stamm ausgeliefert (je nach Jahreszeit) Bitte beachten Sie das unsere Produktbilder nur exemplarisch sind und die Pflanze in verschiedenen Wuchsstadien zeigt.
- Sie erhalten eine dichte Palme mit einer Frosthärte von - 18 Grad Celsius die Sie entweder in ihrem Garten ansiedeln können oder auch auf der Terrasse, dem Balkon oder im Haus an einem geeignetem Platz
- Die Gesamthöhe dieser frostharten Palme beträgt ausgewachsen bis zu 4 Metern. Beachten Sie das die Produktfotos lediglich exemplarisch sind und die Pflanze in verschiedenen Wuchsstadien und zu unterschiedlichen Jahreszeiten zeigt.
- Der Pflegeaufwand: gering, Wasserbedarf: gering . Eine Palme ideal für Anfänger geeignet, da diese Gießfehler verzeiht und auch eine Woche ohne Bewässerung auskommt. Im Laufe des Frühling/Sommers werden viele neue Wedel ausgebildet.
- Die Palme ist in Deutschland absolut Freiland geeignet bis zu einer Temperatur von - 18 Grad. Pflanzen sind Naturprodukte und können in Größe, Farbe und Form von der Produktbeschreibung abweichen. Braune Blattspitzen oder herunterhängende Wedel sind kein Mangel, sondern der normale Lebenszyklus älterer Wedel.
Trachycarpus fortunei – Chinese hemp palm with impressive winter hardiness
The Trachycarpus fortunei, also known as the Chinese hemp palm, originally comes from the mountainous regions of China and is one of the best-known hardy palms for Central Europe. Due to its origin, it is accustomed to harsh climatic conditions – a great advantage for anyone who wants to plant palm trees permanently in the garden.
This palm species is characterized by a slender trunk covered with fibrous bark and large, deep green fan-shaped fronds, which give it its typical tropical appearance. With a height of 140 to 160 cm, it is an impressive eye-catcher even when delivered – whether on the patio, in the front garden or as a solitary plant in the lawn. What makes them special is their exceptional robustness: they can tolerate temperatures as low as -18 °C without any problems, provided the location is well chosen and the soil is well drained.
Compared to many other palm species, Trachycarpus fortunei grows relatively quickly, is easy to care for and requires neither extensive pruning nor special fertilization. Their adaptability makes them a popular choice for beginners – both in containers and planted out in the garden.
Customer opinions on Trachycarpus fortunei
Numerous buyers praise the quality, the healthy appearance and the careful packaging during shipping. The price-performance ratio compared to garden centers and DIY stores is particularly emphasized.
- “The palm tree arrived in perfect condition. Top quality, beautiful large and healthy plant without any blemishes and at a very reasonable price. I can only recommend it to others.” – Nadja
- “The palm tree was very well packed for transportation. Price/performance is super okay, even compared to the DIY stores. Would buy a palm tree again and again.” – Hinz Bernd
Advantages of this hardy palm
- Hardy to -18 °C – ideal for Central European climates
- Easy to care for and robust – suitable for beginners and experienced gardeners
- Visually very decorative with typical fan fronds
- Flexible use: in containers or permanently planted out
- Sustainable choice – low maintenance, long service life
- Supports biodiversity in the garden
If you are looking for a reliable, hardy and attractive palm for your garden or patio, Trachycarpus fortunei is a tried and tested choice.
- Ultimative Winterhrte: Widersteht Temperaturen bis -18C, perfekt fr den Auenbereich. Auch in Tpfen bleibt sie winterhart und vertrgt kalte Winter gut.
- Pflegeleicht: Bentigt regelmiges Gieen im Sommer und darf nicht austrocknen. Halten Sie den Boden stets feucht, besonders in Trockenperioden.
- Exotischer Blickfang: Mit einer Hhe von 140-160 cm (inkl. Topf) ist die Palme ideal fr Terrassen oder Grten und schafft ein mediterranes Ambiente.
- Sommerdngung: Von Mrz bis August alle zwei Monate dngen, um gesundes Wachstum zu frdern. Beachten Sie die Verpackungsanweisungen genau.
- Einfache Pflege: Schneiden Sie regelmig altes Laub mit einer Gartenschere ab, jedoch nicht am Stamm, um Schden zu vermeiden.
Trachycarpus geminisectus – Rare highland palm with extreme frost hardiness
Trachycarpus geminisectusoriginally comes from the high altitudes of northern Vietnam and is one of the lesser known but particularly robust representatives of the hemp palms. Its natural origin in cool, damp mountain regions makes it an ideal choice for Central European gardens where temperatures regularly drop below freezing. With a proven frost hardiness down to -19 °C, it can also survive harsh winters – provided the location is well chosen.
Visually, it resembles the classic Trachycarpus fortunei, but stands out due to its deeply incised fan fronds and often somewhat more vigorous growth. Its upright trunk develops over the years and gives the plant increasing character. In contrast to many tropical palm species, it grows relatively slowly, which makes it particularly suitable for keeping in containers or smaller garden areas.
What makes this palm special is the combination of high frost resistance, compact size (usually up to 100 cm on delivery) and a pronounced site tolerance. It thrives both planted out in the garden and in a large tub on the patio – without requiring much care.
Customer opinions on Trachycarpus geminisectus
The feedback on geminisectus is consistently positive. Buyers report healthy, strong plants, secure packaging and fast delivery. The growth habit and the condition of the soil on arrival are particularly praised.
- “I bought this fantastic hemp palm for my outdoor seating area. The delivery was fast, the plant looks great and if it survives the winter well, I will definitely buy some more next year.” – Anke F.
- “The plant was super well packaged, the plant is beautiful and green, the soil is moist. Beautiful palm, I immediately put it in a larger pot.” – Herbert F.
Advantages of this hardy palm
- Frost-hardy down to -19 °C – ideal for harsher regions
- Compact size – well suited for patios, balconies or smaller beds
- Robust and adaptable – low maintenance requirements
- Can be cultivated both in containers and permanently in the garden
- Environmentally friendly due to low water and maintenance requirements
- Contributes to biodiversity in the garden
The Trachycarpus geminisectus is a real alternative to the classic hemp palm – especially for anyone looking for a compact, very frost-hardy and easy-care palm that also thrives in Central European climates in the long term.
- Die Palme ist in Deutschland absolut Freiland geeignet bis zu einer Temperatur von - 19 Grad.
- Der Stamm erreicht eine Höhe von 1 bis 2 Metern und ist umhüllt von dauerhaften, faserigen Blattscheiden, welche einen Durchmesser von etwa 25 cm haben.
- Sie erhalten eine gut durchwurzelte Freilandpalme, mit einem kräfigen Stamm, in der von uns angegebenen Größe. Die Auslieferung erfolgt in einem Transportcontainer (kein Blumentopf)
- Eine Palme ideal für Anfänger geeignet, da diese Gießfehler verzeiht und auch eine Woche ohne Bewässerung auskommt. Im Laufe des Frühling/Sommers werden viele neue Wedel ausgebildet.
- Pflanzen sind Naturprodukte und können in Größe, Farbe und Form von der Produktbeschreibung abweichen
Phoenix canariensis – Canary Island date palm with a Mediterranean effect
The Phoenix canariensis, better known as the Canary Island date palm, originates from the Canary Islands and is one of the most impressive palm species that is also suitable for Central European locations – at least in sheltered areas. Growing to a height of 160-180 cm on delivery, this specimen is a real eye-catcher in the garden or on the patio. This palm is characterized by its sturdy, slightly bulbous trunk and long, spreading feathery fronds, which immediately bring a tropical flair to the garden.
What makes this palm tree special is its visual presence: it looks elegant, large and brings a real touch of the south to the outdoor area. Despite its originally tropical origin, the Phoenix canariensis is surprisingly adaptable when well cared for. In milder regions of Germany, it can even be kept permanently planted in the garden – provided it is given appropriate winter protection in the event of heavy frost. Alternatively, it is ideal for keeping in containers, for example in sunny corners of houses or on large terraces.
Customer opinions on the Phoenix canariensis
Numerous buyers are impressed by the size and vitality of the palm tree supplied. The packaging and the condition of the plant on unpacking are also frequently praised.
- “A beautiful, well-grown palm tree. Lush green, overall the palm looks very ‘healthy’. I was surprised at the size. I will definitely be ordering more. The store can be recommended without hesitation.” – Schulz
- “After unpacking… WoW what a great plant! Lush green and expansive and large! There will probably be a second one :)” – Silvia Czerlinski
Advantages of this hardy palm
- Frost tolerant down to -15 °C in a dry location with light protection
- Very decorative – immediately creates a Mediterranean ambience
- Easy to care for and frugal in a sunny location
- Suitable both for containers and as a planted solitary palm
- Good choice for milder regions or sheltered locations
- Contributes to biodiversity and provides a habitat for insects
Phoenix canariensis is particularly suitable for anyone who wants to add a southern flair to their garden. If you provide sufficient space and a sheltered location – or can keep the palm tree frost-free in winter – you will be rewarded with an impressive appearance that visually enhances any garden area.
- Phoenix Canariensis - kanarische Dattelpalme
- Pflanzenmaße: (circa Maße, je nach Pflanze variabel) 160-180 cm hoch (inkl. Topf) extra kräftige Pflanzen mit großer Spannweite. Die Töpfe bei der Lieferung können schwarz oder terracotta-farben sein
- Premiumqualität von grünwaren. Originalfotos aus unserem Bestand.
Chamaerops humilis – Hardy dwarf palm for gardens and containers
The Chamaerops humilis, also known as the European dwarf palm, originally comes from the western Mediterranean region and is one of the few palm species that can also be found in the wild in southern and central Europe. Due to its natural origin in windy coastal and mountain regions, it is particularly robust and well adapted to changeable weather conditions. With a compact growth height of around 80 cm, it is ideal for smaller gardens, terraces or as a decorative palm in a tub.
Typical of Chamaerops humilis is its bushy growth with several stems, often close to the ground. The firm, green-grey fan-shaped fronds are not only visually attractive, but also defy wind and occasional snow. In contrast to many tropical palm species, it requires significantly less care and grows comparatively slowly – an advantage for anyone looking for a permanently structuring plant in the garden. It also thrives in partial shade, which makes it very flexible in terms of design.
Customer opinions on Chamaerops humilis
Many buyers appreciate the good packaging, the compact growth habit and the healthy condition of the plants on delivery. The ease of care and the price-performance ratio are particularly praised.
- “A very beautiful palm (80 cm) that is worth the money. The packaging was impeccable and the delivery was very fast.” – Walter
- “I am very satisfied, such a beautiful plant, even exceeded my expectations. Super nice palm tree.” – Amazon customer
Advantages of this hardy palm
- Frost-hardy to -15 °C
- Compact, multi-shoot growth – ideal for smaller gardens or balconies
- Suitable for full sun and partial shade
- Easy to care for and undemanding – also suitable for beginners
- Ideal for keeping in containers or planted out in sheltered locations
- Low water requirement, well suited for drier locations
- Contributes to biodiversity and supports a near-natural garden appearance
Chamaerops humilis is one of the most versatile hardy palms for Central European gardens. If you are looking for a smaller, easy-care and robust palm, you will find a reliable companion with Mediterranean charm – perfect for planting a piece of the south in a limited space.
- Herkunft: Chamaerops Humilis, auch europische Fcherpalme oder Mittelmeer-Zwergpalme genannt, ist eine Pflanzenart aus der Familie der Palmengewchse Arecaceae. Die Zwergpalme ist im Mittelmeerraum beheimatet, vor allem in Spanien, Italien, Algerien und Tunesien.
- Aussehen: Diese winterharte Palme ist ein langsam wachsender Strauch, der bis zu 8 Meter hoch werden kann und einen stacheligen Stamm hat. Die Palmbltter sind fcherfrmig und in bis zu 50 Segmente unterteilt, was ihnen ein federartiges Aussehen verleiht. Diese natrlichen Outdoor Pflanzen blhen im Sommer und bringen kleine, weie Blten hervor, gefolgt von schwarzen oder roten Beeren.
- Verwendung: Chamaerops Humilis wird hufig als Zierpflanze in Grten und Landschaften verwendet. Diese winterharten Palmen sind trockenheitstolerant und knnen in heiem und trockenem Klima gedeihen, was sie zu einer beliebten Wahl fr Grten im mediterranen Stil macht. Die exotische Pflanze wird auch im Xeropaysaging eingesetzt, einer Methode der Landschaftsgestaltung, bei der trockenheitsresistente Pflanzen zur Wasserspeicherung verwendet werden.
- Winterhart: Chamaerops Humilis ist winterhart und kann niedrige Temperaturen von bis zu -14 C vertragen. Diese Palmenpflanze ist auerdem resistent gegen Schdlinge und Krankheiten, was sie fr Grtner zu einer pflegeleichten Pflanze macht.
- Unser Engagement: Unser Ziel ist es, natrliche, hochwertige und sthetische Produkte anzubieten, die nicht nur den Innen- und Auenbereich schmcken, sondern auch mehr Farbe und Leben in Ihren Garten bringen.
Winter-hardy palms overwinter properly: how to get tub and outdoor palms through the winter well
Proper preparation for winter is crucial to ensure that hardy palms overwinter and start the new gardening season healthy and strong. Even though many palm species such as Trachycarpus fortunei, Wagnerianus, Trachycarpus geminisectus, Chamaerops humilis or, to a lesser extent, Phoenix canariensis are considered frost-resistant, they require appropriate winter protection depending on their location and growth habit.
Overwintering planted palm trees in the garden
Trachycarpus fortunei, Wagnerianus, geminisectus or Rhapidophyllum hystrix are particularly suitable for permanent outdoor planting. In regions with cold winters, however, targeted protection is still advisable. The most important measure is to insulate the root area, as most palms are sensitive to frozen soil.
This is how wintering outdoors works:
- Protection should be started from around -5 °C
- Spread a 10-15 cm thick layer of bark mulch around the root area of the palm tree
- Tie the fronds loosely together to protect the sensitive heart of the palm tree
- In severe frost: Pull a breathable protective cover made of fleece or jute sack over the crown
- The trunk can also be wrapped with coconut matting or bubble wrap (only in the event of heavy permafrost)
Chamaerops humilis is considered particularly frost-hardy and is also suitable for planting out – but also needs root protection when young and a cover in the event of heavy frost.
Phoenix canariensis is much more sensitive to frost. This palm should only be planted outdoors in very mild regions, where it needs comprehensive protection for its crown, trunk and soil – ideally as a temporary winter tent or with heatable winter protection.
Overwintering potted palms correctly
Palms such as Phoenix canariensis or smaller Chamaerops humilis can be cultivated very well in containers. The challenge here is that the container cools down more quickly and the roots are sensitive to frost.
Measures for wintering potted palms:
- From temperatures below -2 °C, the tub should be moved to a sheltered place (house wall, covered terrace)
- Ideally, the bucket should be placed on a wooden or polystyrene plate to prevent the ground from getting cold
- Wrap the sides of the pot with jute, coconut mat or fleece
- Smaller plants can also be placed in cool, bright winter quarters (e.g. unheated conservatory or garage with window)
- Water little – only enough to prevent the root ball from drying out completely (about every 2-4 weeks)
Tip: Potted palms overwintering outdoors should also be protected from the wind and covered if necessary.
What needs to be considered during the winter?
- Regularly check whether mold is forming or moisture is building up
- Air protective materials (e.g. fleece) regularly when dry
- When keeping in containers, make sure that there is no waterlogging – excess water must be able to drain away
- Water only on frost-free days in small quantities
Spring work after the winter
As soon as the night frosts are reliably over (usually from mid-April), the winter protection can be removed:
- Slightly loosen or remove the mulch layer
- Loosen fronds and remove dry or damaged leaves with clean tools if necessary
- First fertilizer application with a potassium-rich palm fertilizer – supports growth and regeneration
- For potted palms: check whether repotting is required and use fresh substrate if necessary
Important: First get palm trees used to full sun again – especially potted plants that have spent the winter indoors.
With the right preparation, a little observation and targeted care, hardy palm species can be successfully brought through the winter – whether planted out in the garden or mobile in a container. Once you have internalized this rhythm, you will be rewarded in the long term with healthy plants and tropical flair in your own garden.
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- Einfache Anwendung: Erde leicht auflockern, Pflanztopf mit COMPO Blumenerde für Grünpflanzen befüllen, Pflanze einsetzen und mit Erde bis 1 cm unter den Rand befüllen, leicht andrücken
- COMPO Spezialerde: besteht zu über 50 % aus nachhaltigen Rohstoffen, reduziert den CO₂-Fußabdruck, angenehmer Geruch, Ausgesuchte Rohstoffe nach Original COMPO Rezeptur
- Lieferumfang: 1 x COMPO SANA Grünpflanzen- und Palmenerde, 12 Wochen Nährstoffversorgung, zu über 50 % aus nachhaltigen Rohstoffen, 10 Liter, Art.-Nr.: 11431
Summary: Hardy palm trees for the garden in Germany – my experiences with robust exotics
In this article, I share my personal experiences with hardy palm trees for the garden in Germany. I wanted to create a permanent tropical flair in my garden in central Germany – despite occasional winters with temperatures as low as -20 °C. Over the years, I have tested various frost-resistant palm species for German gardens that not only look good, but also thrive in the open ground or in containers.
I present five selected palm species, hardy to -15 degrees or more: the tried and tested Trachycarpus fortunei, the compact Fortunei/Wagnerianus hybrid, the particularly frost-hardy Trachycarpus geminisectus, the impressive Phoenix canariensis and the versatile Chamaerops humilis. All are ideal for Central Europe and bring an exotic flair to the garden without being particularly high-maintenance.
An important part of the article deals with the question of whether palm trees are better cultivated in containers or planted out directly. I show the advantages and disadvantages of both variants and describe what is important in terms of location, soil, water requirements and winter protection. For each of these palm species, I have explained in detail how I winter them, what I look out for in winter and what to do in spring in terms of care and fertilization.
My Mediterranean garden design project with pool, terrace and garden kitchen was also part of the motivation to plant and care for hardy palm trees.
If you’re also looking for robust palm trees for cold climates, you’ll find plenty of practical knowledge and my best recommendations for a little vacation in your own garden in this article.
| Palm tree | Example picture | Features | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rare palm cross Trachycarpus Fortunei/Wagnerianus |
 |
Frost-hardy to -18°C, ideal for cooler climates. | High cold tolerance, easy to care for. | Size may vary, some customers report disappointment. |
| Trachycarpus Fortunei Chinese fan palm |
 |
Hardy to -18°C, needs plenty of sun and water. | Excellent quality, very robust. | Requires regular watering, can be expensive. |
| Extremely frost-hardy Trachycarpus geminisectus |
|
Frost hardy to -19°C, grows at high altitudes. | Very cold-resistant, good root formation. | May vary in size, delivery in transport container. |
| Palm XXL 160-180 cm Phoenix canariensis |
|
Hardy, requires full sun or partial shade. | Healthy, large plant, good air purification. | Size may vary, some customers report transport damage. |
| Chamaerops humilis dwarf palm |
|
Small-growing, hardy, ideal for partial sun. | Easy to care for, good winter hardiness. | Smaller size than expected, may appear less robust. |
- Optimale Aufnahme der Nährstoffe über die Wurzeln oder auch Blattmasse.
- Schnelle Verfügbarkeit für die Pflanze durch effektivste Komplexverbindungen.
- NEUER HIGHTECH DÜNGER. Sehr ergiebiges und sehr effektives Düngerkonzentrat. Inhalt 250ml
- Je nach Pflanzenart und Zustand sind 250ml Düngerkonzentrat ausreichend für 60-125 Liter fertigen Flüssigdünger!
- Auf jedem Dünger befindet sich eine ausführliche Anleitung. Sehr einfach anzuwenden, die Dosierung erfolgt über die Verschlusskappe.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about hardy palms in the garden
1. which palm trees are really hardy in Germany?
The most robust palms for Central European climates include Trachycarpus fortunei, Trachycarpus geminisectus, the Fortunei/Wagnerianus hybrid, Chamaerops humilis and – with protection – Phoenix canariensis. They are hardy down to -15 °C or even lower.
2. can I plant palm trees permanently outdoors in Germany?
Yes, many hardy palms such as Trachycarpus fortunei or Chamaerops humilis thrive permanently planted out in the garden – provided the location is sunny and sheltered from the wind and the soil is well drained.
3. are palm trees better in a tub or in the garden?
This depends on the location and your options in winter. Potted palms are flexible and can be moved in the event of frost, but require more care. Planted palms are easier to care for in summer, but need winter protection.
4 How do I protect my palm tree properly in winter?
In the garden: Cover the root area with mulch, tie the fronds together, use additional fleece or jute sacks in case of heavy frost. In pots: insulate the pot, place it in an elevated position and, if possible, in a bright, frost-free area in the event of permafrost.
5 How often do I have to water a hardy palm tree?
In the garden only during prolonged drought – especially in summer. In containers, it often needs to be watered daily in summer and only very sparingly in winter – about every 2-4 weeks to prevent the root ball from drying out.
6. which palm species is best suited for beginners?
The Trachycarpus fortunei/Wagnerianus cross is particularly easy to care for, compact and robust – ideal for beginners who want to combine tropical flair with little effort.
7. which palm tree looks particularly Mediterranean?
The Phoenix canariensis (Canary Island date palm) impresses with its expansive growth habit and typical South Sea look. However, it needs a sheltered location or containers with winter quarters.
8 When should you start winterizing palm trees?
Planted palms should be protected from -5 °C at the latest. Potted palms should be moved closer to the house or under a canopy from around -2 °C.
9. can palm trees be left outside in winter?
Yes, many hardy species such as Trachycarpus fortunei or Chamaerops humilis can survive the winter outdoors with the right preparation – even in colder regions.
10. where can you buy hardy palms?
In well-stocked online stores or at specialized nurseries. It is important that the root ball is well rooted and healthy. In my article you will find specific recommendations with prices and sources of supply.
- Optimale Eigenschaften – Das Kultur-Substrat für Palmen schafft durch die Mischung aus Seramis Pflanz-Granulat mit Lava sowie Silikatmineral beste Voraussetzungen für Zellaufbau und Wachstum.
- Perfekter Pflanzenschutz – Das Palmen-Tongranulat beugt Schädlingsbefall vor. Silikate im Pflanzen-Substrat haben eine leicht isolierende Wirkung und halten Kübelpflanzen auf Balkon oder Terrasse länger warm.
- Ideale Nährstoffversorgung – Das Pflanzen-Granulat für Palmen speichert Wasser und Nährstoffe wie Kalium, Calcium oder Magnesium. Durch die Lava wird die Drainage-Wirkung und Standfestigkeit erhöht.
- Lieferumfang & Hinweis – Seramis Spezial-Substrat für Palmen im 7 l Beutel, in Ton-Farbe. Dieses Tongranulat für Pflanzen ist allergikerfreundlich. Art.-Nr.: 731359.
- Seramis bietet ein umfangreiches Sortiment an hochwertigen Pflege- sowie Nährstofflösungen, welche speziell auf die individuellen Bedürfnisse unterschiedlicher Blumen und Pflanzen abgestimmt sind.
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