Washingtonia

Which one it is

There are two washingtonias: robusta and filifera. This profile covers robusta, which is the one most often planted around here. Among the street and park trees of the city of València, for example, there are about 7,500 robustas and fewer than 700 filiferas.

Where to plant it

In full sun and in soil that drains well; otherwise, it adapts to many types of soil. Bear its size in mind: it grows fast and over the years can exceed 20 metres in height, so it needs space.

Watering

It isn’t as drought-resistant as it seems: in its native habitat it grows near permanent water. In summer don’t leave it without watering, but don’t waterlog it either, because it needs good drainage.

Pruning

While it’s young, the dead leaves stay hanging from the trunk. Once the palm reaches about 9 metres, it usually sheds them on its own. When removing dead leaves, avoid injuring the trunk, because wounds are the way in for some diseases. On tall palms this is work at height: we take care of it.

Feeding

If you feed it, use a slow-release palm fertiliser with potassium and magnesium. A potassium deficiency takes years to correct.

In our climate

It tolerates light frost, although in hard cold the leaves can be damaged.