Desert Fan Palm

(Washingtonia filifera)

Desert Fan Palm (Washingtonia filifera)

Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz

CC BY-SA 4.0

Image By: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz

Recorded By:

Copyright Notice: Photo by: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Kenraiz | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Washingtonia_filifera_kz03.jpg | Notes: =={{int:filedesc}}== {{Information |Description=Cones of Subalpine Fir, taken Point |Source=[https://www.flickr.com/photos/treeperson/15691025357/ Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa] |Date=2013-09-02 00:00 |Author=[https://www.flickr.com/peopl... |

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Washingtonia filifera, commonly known as the desert fan palm or California fan palm, is an evergreen monocotyledonous tree native to desert riparian habitats in the southwestern United States and Baja California, Mexico. It thrives along streams and springs in these arid regions, forming oases. This species can reach 15–20 meters (49–66 feet) in height with a spread of 3–6 meters (10–20 feet). The trunk is thick and columnar, often with a skirt of dead leaves hanging below the living crown. The fan-shaped (palmate) leaves are waxy and gray-green, providing a distinctive silhouette. Creamy white flowers bloom in large, branched clusters in late spring to early summer, followed by small, black fruits.

The desert fan palm is valued for its striking form and ability to create dramatic landscapes. It is drought-tolerant and suitable for xeriscaping, making it a popular choice for dry, warm climates. It can be used as a focal point in gardens or in group plantings for a natural oasis effect. While it is adaptable to various soil types, it prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate both full sun and part shade. Regular watering will enhance its growth, but it can survive with minimal irrigation once established. Potential problems include pests like the giant palm borer and diseases such as Fusarium wilt.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Tree
Height: 49-70 feet
Width: 24-30 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: N/A
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Low
Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Desert riparian habitats in the southwestern United States and Baja California, Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Desert Fan Palm, California Palm, Washingtonia De Castilla

Scientific Names: , Washingtonia filifera, Brahea dulcis, Washingtonia filamentosa, Washingtonia filifera var. microsperma, Brahea filamentosa, Brahea filifera, Livistona filamentosa, Neowashingtonia filamentosa, Neowashingtonia filifera

GBIF Accepted Name: Washingtonia filifera (Rafarin) H.Wendl. ex de Bary