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Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Washingtonia robusta, commonly referred to as the Mexican Fan Palm, is a tall, fast-growing, and statuesque palm native to north-western Mexico. It is best known for its slender, straight trunk and large, fan-shaped leaves that form a full, rounded crown giving it a distinctly tropical, postcard palm appearance. In its natural habitat, Washingtonia robusta can grow to over 30 metres tall, but when grown in pots or indoors (in conservatories or atriums), it remains much smaller and slower-growing. The leaves are bright green with segmented, pleated leaflets and fine fibres along the margins, adding a unique texture. This palm thrives in full sun and warm conditions, making it well suited to outdoor planting in Mediterranean or coastal gardens, or as a dramatic container specimen for patios and bright interiors. While it requires a bit more space and warmth than some indoor palms, its striking vertical form and bold presence make it a fantastic statement plant in the right environment.
Outdoors: Prefers full sun and grows best in open, sunny positions.
Indoors: Requires very bright light ideally direct sun for part of the day. South-facing windows or conservatories are best.
Too little light: Results in weak, leggy growth and sparse fronds.
Ideal temperature: 2032C (6890F)
Minimum temperature: Hardy to around 6C (21F) when mature, but protect from frost in containers.
Hardiness rating: RHS H3H4 can survive mild UK winters in coastal or sheltered gardens; container-grown plants should be overwintered in frost-free conditions.
Watering frequency: Water thoroughly when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain away.
Outdoor plants: Drought-tolerant once established, but young plants need regular watering.
Winter watering: Reduce frequency; water sparingly if kept in cool indoor conditions.
Soil type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy compost. Palm or cactus compost works well with added grit.
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.07.5)
Repotting: Every 23 years or when rootbound. Choose a heavy container to prevent tipping due to its upright growth.
Growing season (springsummer): Feed every 46 weeks with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser or a palm-specific feed with added magnesium.
Autumnwinter: Pause feeding during dormancy or reduced growth indoors.
Pruning: Remove old, brown, or damaged fronds by cutting close to the trunk. Avoid over-pruning never remove green fronds.
Self-cleaning: Fronds do not fall off naturally; regular maintenance improves appearance.
Trunk care: The fibrous thatch formed by old frond bases is often retained for ornamental effect.
From seed: The most common method. Seeds germinate in warm, moist conditions over several weeks.
Note: Not typically propagated by division or cuttings.
Common pests: Spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs, particularly on indoor plants in dry air.
Symptoms: Yellowing fronds, sticky residue, or stunted growth.
Solutions: Increase humidity, clean fronds, and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets.
Handling tip: Leaf tips can be sharp use gloves when pruning or handling large specimens.
Excellent statement palm for conservatories, atriums, and large, bright interiors.
Outdoors, perfect for Mediterranean-style gardens, coastal landscapes, and poolside planting.
Can be grown in large containers on sunny patios or terraces during summer months.
Works beautifully as a focal point in tropical-themed planting schemes or modern, minimalist landscapes.
Needs space to thrive best suited to large rooms, greenhouses, or gardens with height.
