Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Arecaceae

Genus:

Washingtonia

Species:

Washingtonia filifera

USDA Symbol:

WAFI

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Tree

Height:

2300 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun

Bloom Colors:

white

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★★☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Mature palms are fire-resistant; fire can help clear competing vegetation.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Thrives in arid desert environments

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Warm stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

30–90 days

Notes:

Seeds germinate readily after warm stratification; soak in water before planting.

Where to Buy

Nationwide Seller

• Sheffield's Seed (seeds)