the genus
WASHINGTONIA

In honor of George Washington (1732-1799), first President of the United States of America

Subfamily: Coryphoideae
Tribe: Corypheae
Subtribe: Livistoninae

The subtribe includes 12 related genera such as Acoelorraphe, Brahea, Copernicia, Livistona, Licuala, Pritchardia, and Serenoa.

A genus of two species of palms, Washingtonia filifera and Washingtonia robusta, native to the southwestern United States (California, Arizona) and northwestern Mexico (Sonora, Baja California). In cultivation these two species may hybridize to produce an intermediate cross called “Washingtonia filibusta”. Washingtonia are desert palms that naturally inhabit edges of springs and watercourses, often growing in steep gorges or deep, protected canyons. They are impressively large and fast growing, with lush green crowns and imposing trunks that may attain great heights. If not trimmed away, the dried leaves develop into skirts of thatch (“petticoats”) that give these palms a characteristic silhouette. Because of their hardiness and fast growth, Washingtonia are popular palms for gardens and street plantings, and are often set in large groupings. The numerous tiny flowers ripen to clusters of small blackish fruits favored by coyotes, who feast on them when ripe and distribute the stony brown seeds.

Culture: Both species of Washingtonia succeed in full sun or light shade and will tolerate extreme heat and drought. Good drainage is essential, but the trees enjoy access to abundant water.

Washingtonia filifera
Common Names: Desert Fan Palm, California Fan Palm, Petticoat Palm
Cold Tolerance: 12F (-11C) USDA Zones: 8b-11

Typical Height: 50' Growth Rate: Moderate
Habit: Solitary

Status: In Stock
Available Range: 15–300gal. 2'–30'CT

Washingtonia robusta
Common Names: Mexican Fan Palm, Skyduster
Cold Tolerance: 20F (-7C) USDA Zones: 9-11

Typical Height: 70'-100' Growth Rate: Fast
Habit: Solitary

Status: On Request
Available Range: 15–100gal. B&B 2'–30'CT

Washingtonia filifera x robusta
Common Names: Hybrid Fan Palm, Filibusta Palm
Cold Tolerance: 17F (-8C) USDA Zones: 9-11

Typical Height: 50'-70' Growth Rate: Moderate
Habit: Solitary

Status: In Stock, - curved and multi-trunked
Available Range: B&B 5'–30'CT

Other Palms of Interest:
Wallichia densiflora (occasionally available)
Wallichia disticha, Wodyetia bifurcata (in stock)
Zombia antillarum (on request)