Washingtonia robusta

This tall, solitary fan palm is also know as Mexican Fan Palm, Washington Palm, Skyduster and petticoat palm.

It is found in North-western Mexico and Baja California in desert and semi-arid areas, especially canyons, often near water. It grows to about 20m with persistant leaf bases.

The leaves are bright green, with cotton like threads on young leaves, and dark brown, heavily armed, shiny leaf bases. It prefers a sunny, well drained position. Drought and frost tolerant till -4°C.