Washingtonia robusta – The Mexican Fan Palm

 

The Washingtonia robusta, also known as the Mexican Fan Palm, is a tall, elegant palm that creates instant tropical atmosphere. Its slender trunk and wide, fan-shaped leaves make it a striking choice for avenues, large gardens, or as a statement palm in public spaces. Unlike many palms, it can grow very tall and fast, becoming a true landmark tree.

Origin & 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 a signature palm along streets, boulevards, and coastal promenades. In cities like Los Angeles, its tall silhouettes have become iconic.

Botanical Specifications

 

  • Botanical name: Washingtonia robusta

  • Common names: Mexican Fan Palm, Skyduster Palm

  • Type: Evergreen, single-trunk palm

  • Growth rate: Fast (up to 1 m / 3 ft per year in good conditions)

  • Mature height: 20–30 m (65–100 ft)

  • Spread: 2.5–4 m (8–13 ft) crown width

  • Leaf type: Large, fan-shaped, up to 1.5 m (5 ft) wide

  • Cold hardiness: To about −6 °C (20 °F)

  • Lifespan: Several decades; can live over 100 years in ideal conditions


 

Care & Growing Conditions

 

  • Light: Requires full sun

  • Soil: Well-draining; tolerates sandy or rocky soil

  • Watering: Regular watering when young; drought-tolerant when established

  • Fertilization: Use a palm fertilizer with added magnesium to prevent leaf yellowing

  • Pruning: Remove dead fronds to keep a clean trunk (“skirt” of leaves may remain if not pruned)

  • Winter tips: Protect young palms in frosty climates; mature palms tolerate light frost only

 

Benefits & Uses

 

  • Creates dramatic vertical impact with its tall, slender trunk

  • Extremely fast-growing compared to many palm species

  • Ideal for avenues, coastal promenades, and large gardens

  • Brings instant exotic and Mediterranean feel

  • Long-lived and resilient in dry, hot 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: A landmark tree for a large garden

  • Tropical combinations: Works beautifully with smaller palms, agaves, and succulents

  • Coastal planting: Tolerates salt spray, perfect for seaside landscapes

Common Problems & Solutions

 

Nutrient deficiencies (yellow leaves): Apply fertilizer with magnesium and potassium

Cold damage: Protect young plants below −3 °C (27 °F)

Pests: Sometimes affected by palm weevils or scale insects; inspect regularly

Excessive height management: Pruning dead fronds is important for safety and aesthetics

Brown, dried lower leaves:
This is a natural process – older leaves die off as the palm grows. They can be left as a “skirt” or trimmed for a clean trunk.

 

Availability & 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




Interested in our Sabal Palmetto?