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California Native Plant

Washingtonia filifera

California Fan Palm

Plant photo of: Washingtonia filifera
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme Editor        Photographer: Myrna Dowsett/Sortomme

 

Description

California Fan Palm is the only palm native to California. It populates the areas along the San Andreas Fault where desert water has seeped to the surface and formed springs. It grows to 60' tall and 20' wide. It has light green fronds 3'-6' long. One of the most common uses of the palms fronds by Native Californians was in forming housing and thatched Ramadas. Fronds and frond fiber were also used to make sandals, cordage, nets and mats.

 

Plant Type

Palm

Height Range

12-25', 25-40'

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

n/a

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

Water

Moderate

Growth Rate

Fast, Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Seascape, Tropical

Accenting Features

Silhouette, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

n/a

Location Uses

Lawn, Parking Strip

Special Uses

n/a

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.