Arecaceae · Washingtonia

California Fan Palm

Washingtonia filifera

Desert Fan Palm

Stockier fan palm native to California and Arizona deserts. Thicker trunk than W. robusta.

1 confusable 2 countries
Washingtonia filifera

Distribution

2 countries

  • US
  • MX

Easy to confuse with

Click "Compare side-by-side" to see both plants together with the differentiation tip.

  • Washingtonia robusta

    Washingtonia robusta

    Mexican Fan Palm

    Washingtonia robusta has a thinner, more tapered trunk and grows taller (up to 30m). Washingtonia filifera has a thicker, stockier trunk and retains dead fronds longer, creating a distinctive 'skirt'. In Street View, look at the trunk thickness relative to the crown size.