Mexican Fan Palm (Washingtonia robusta)

This tall, graceful fast-growing palm is well adapted to Arizona's heat and low humidity. Bright green, fan-shaped leaves form a luxuriant but more compact head than California Fan Palm. The trunk flares at the base but tapers into a slender column above. The dry leaf thatch is not so uniform or attractive as that of the California Fan Palm. It may be removed or allowed to hang naturally, and oftenbreaks loose. This species hybridizes easily with W. filifera, so that a large variation in appearance is possible, even from commercial sources. Planted as a street or park tree, lawn specimen and in groups for a tropical effect. Its height, form and ease of transplanting make it a popular landscape specimen to lend vertical scale to large spaces.

LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS
Climate Zone: 4, 5

CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Foliage: Evergreen

Height: 40'-100'

Light Exposure: Part shade to full sun

Spread: 10'-15'

Water Use: Low, medium or high

Growth Rate: Fast

Trunk Width: 2.5'-3'

Cultural Requirements: Tolerance is shown to poor conditions but best growth occurs with good soil and regular irrigation. Occasional grooming is needed. Fertilize annually.

Problems: Although often injured by winter cold, near the limits of its range this palm regrows a new head of leaves by midspring. Thatch usually breaks loose on tall trees. Somewhat more disease-resistant than other palms. Palm flower caterpillars are an occasional litter problem beneath the tree or in nearby structures. Avoid planting near power lines.