Mexican Fan Palm
Washingtonia robusta
Also listed as Washingtonia gracilis, Brahea robusta
Also known as Mexican Washington Palm, Washington Palm, Washington Fan Palm
Climate Match for your location
See how well Mexican Fan Palm grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
A tall, slender palm with fan-shaped fronds that creates a tropical accent in warm climates. Fast-growing and relatively low-maintenance once established.
Why grow it
Washingtonia robusta grows faster and more slenderly than its close relative W. filifera (California Fan Palm), making it better suited to tight spaces where vertical accent is desired. It tolerates a wider range of soil types and is more cold-hardy than many tropical palms, performing in USDA zones 9b-11. The self-cleaning fronds reduce maintenance compared to species that require regular removal of dead material.
Watch out for
Young plants benefit from consistent moisture and can struggle in extended drought until roots are well-established. In areas with heavy winds, the slender trunk may require staking during the first few years, even though mature specimens are reasonably wind-firm. Overcrowded fronds can trap moisture and debris, potentially creating conditions for fungal issues if air circulation is poor.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Arecaceae
Native Range
Mexico
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A tall, slender palm with fan-shaped fronds that creates a tropical accent in warm climates. Fast-growing and relatively low-maintenance once established.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Mexican Fan Palm grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Washingtonia robusta grows faster and more slenderly than its close relative W. filifera (California Fan Palm), making it better suited to tight spaces where vertical accent is desired. It tolerates a wider range of soil types and is more cold-hardy than many tropical palms, performing in USDA zones 9b-11. The self-cleaning fronds reduce maintenance compared to species that require regular removal of dead material.
Watch out for
Young plants benefit from consistent moisture and can struggle in extended drought until roots are well-established. In areas with heavy winds, the slender trunk may require staking during the first few years, even though mature specimens are reasonably wind-firm. Overcrowded fronds can trap moisture and debris, potentially creating conditions for fungal issues if air circulation is poor.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Arecaceae
Native Range
Mexico
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.