Washingtonia robusta – The Mexican Fan Palm
Washingtonia robusta, also known as the Mexican fan palm, is a tall and elegant palm that creates an instant tropical atmosphere. Its slender trunk and broad fan-shaped leaves make it a striking choice for avenues, large gardens, or as a standout palm in public spaces. Unlike many palms, it can grow very tall and quickly, becoming a true iconic tree.
Origin and History
Native to the deserts of northwestern Mexico and Baja California, the Mexican fan palm has adapted to hot, dry climates. It was introduced to the United States and Europe in the 19th century, where it became an iconic palm on streets, boulevards, and coastal promenades. In cities like Los Angeles, its tall silhouettes have become iconic.
SPECIFICATIONS
Botanical Specifications
- Botanical name: Washingtonia robusta
- Common names: Mexican fan palm, Skyduster palm
- Type: Evergreen palm with a single trunk
- Growth rate: Fast, up to 1 m (3 feet) per year under good conditions
- Mature height: 20–30 m (65–100 feet)
- Spread: 2.5–4 m (8–13 feet) canopy width
- Leaf type: Large, fan-shaped, up to 1.5 m (5 feet) wide
- Cold hardiness: Down to approximately −6°C (20°F)
- Lifespan: Several decades; can live over 100 years under ideal conditions
Care
- Light: Requires full sun.
- Soil: Well-drained; tolerates sandy or rocky soils.
- Watering: Regular watering when young; drought-tolerant once established.
- Fertilization: Use a palm fertilizer with added magnesium to prevent leaf yellowing.
- Pruning: Remove dead leaves to maintain a clean trunk (a leaf skirt may remain if not pruned).
- Winter tips: Protect young palms in freezing climates; mature palms only tolerate light frosts.
Benefits and Uses
- Creates spectacular vertical impact with its tall, slender trunk.
- Extremely fast growth compared to many palm species.
- Ideal for avenues, coastal promenades, and large gardens.
- Instantly adds an exotic and Mediterranean touch.
- Long-lived and resilient in hot, dry climates.
Landscape Inspiration
The Mexican fan palm can be used in many ways:
- Street or driveway lining: Rows of tall palms create a grand boulevard effect.
- Single specimen palm: An iconic tree for a large garden.
- Tropical combinations: Pairs perfectly with smaller palms, agaves, and succulents.
- Coastal planting: Tolerates salt spray, perfect for coastal landscapes.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Nutrient deficiencies (yellow leaves): Apply fertilizer with magnesium and potassium.
- Cold damage: Protect young plants at temperatures below −3°C (27°F).
- Pests: Sometimes affected by weevils or mealybugs; inspect regularly.
- Managing excessive height: Pruning dead leaves is important for safety and aesthetics.
- Brown, dry lower leaves: This is a natural process: older leaves die as the palm grows. They can be left as a skirt or pruned for a clean trunk.
Availability and Sizes
We offer Washingtonia robusta palms in different sizes
- 0 – 10 cm
- 10 – 30 cm
- 30 – 50 cm
- 50 – 75 cm
- 75 – 100 cm
- 100 – 150 cm
Contact
Leave your contact details if you are interested in this palm and we will get in touch as soon as possible
Our Philosophy
«We cultivate each plant as we live: chemical-free, using green energy, and with complete respect for nature.»
«We are not in a hurry, we do not pollute: we cultivate with purpose, for a greener future.»
Pepe Ruiz Camps, Owner
