Tall Palm Trees in California
Majestic Species and Locations

Tall palm trees in California are awesome when viewed in photos or in person!

• Do you want to learn details about those tall palms in California, so you can identify them?
• Do you want to see them in person so you can take your own photos?
• Do you want to know their care, so you can plant them in your own SoCal property?

We lived in Southern California for ten years.

We feel confident in taking you for a (virtual) stroll on some California scenic paths. To see where tall palms abound. Where they're as ubiquitous as surfing & celebrities. Discovering where & how they'll be uplifting for you!

We'll go over all of that and more. Check our TOC below for your needed sections.

Palm view taken when we walked along a pathway by the San Diego River

Are the Tall Palm Trees in California Native?

At Mission: Palm Trees

Palm lovers can calm their palm-related search tasks & worries. Our articles are intended to inform, while having fun, easily Finding What You Want or Need. Without unneeded shoptalk & tiring endless research. We Research For You!

The first question people often think of is: Are California palm trees native?

California is traditionally recognized world-over for famed streets lined on both sides with towering palms. Yet, only One Species Claims Native Roots.

Figure That Out One Way When Getting Your Washingtonia Cheat Sheet> 

Identifying Tall Palm Trees in California

There are several species of tall palm trees in California. Let's see what they are.

Native California Palm Species and Their Heights

The Only Palm Native to California - Yet Not THE Tallest.
Have You Figured Out How They Got One of Their Nicknames?

Are you wondering what those really tall palm trees in California are called?

Washingtonia filifera (scientific name) was original to California. Commonly called the California Fan Palm. It has other nicknames too. Desert Fan Palm & Petticoat Palm. In the UK they call it the Cotton Palm.

It was native to areas near streams & natural springs. It's also found naturally by canyon arroyos with intermittent water flow.

Yes it's pretty tall. Ending up anywhere from 50ft/15m to 70ft/21m tall. How fast does the California Fan Palm get to these heights?

• As a youthful sprout it grows pretty slowly while getting it's trunk girth on.
• Once it's concentrating on starting to grow upward, it speeds up moderately. But still doesn't have the fastest rate of all tall palm trees in California.

So we see, they're not the towering giants we see on Hollywood streets or in films. There's another tall California palm with that distinction.

Common Imported Tall Palm Species in California

These two are the most common tall palms non-natives you'll see in Southern California.

The Celebrated Washingtonia robusta Common name

That regular player in the Southern California skyscape is commonly called the Mexican Fan Palm. Scientifically it's Washingtonia robusta. The very tall, skinny palm tree you've noted in California.

This tall drink of water among palms features an impressive growth rate.

• First as a little tyke, it seems to be relatively slow. 
• But be patient - once it gets to its "teens" it sprouts up quickly.

The Tallest Palms in Cali, Lined Up Along a Residential Street

In its best circumstances, each year it grows as much as 4ft/1.2m.

But normally these SoCal tall palms grow more like 2ft/0.6m per year. Reaching a stunning, head-tilting height of 100ft/30m. Sometimes even a little more.

Canary Island Date Palm California

There's another tall palm tree in California you'll commonly sight.

Called the Canary Island Date Palm. Or scientifically: Phoenix canariensis. As the names suggest, it's originally from the Canary Islands. But it's well adapted to Californian culture & climate.

It's A Type of Date Palm in California. Technically you could eat these Palm Fruits, but you'd make an awful face. Then spit it out!

Yuck! He picked the wrong date fruit to try!!

The Canary Island Date Palm has pinnate fronds.

Rather than the palmate fronds on tall palm trees in California we've already mentioned. Wondering about the difference? Our Palm Frond Info has your differentiation tips.

It gets pretty tall, yet more slowly. Up to 90 ft./27m maximum, with optimal conditions. Its sensational look comes from the wide, round crown.

Where we live in Tucson, we see them regularly. Craning our neck to see it all!

Canary Island Date Palm in a Garden

Where to Find Tall Palm Trees in California

Many California communities feature their own style of palm placement.

Check out these several places.

• Don't miss out on seeing those tall palm trees in Los Angeles California!
• We also recommend San Diego, and other towns in San Diego County.
• Even as far north as San Francisco.

Imagine stepping out of a beach-front bungalow.

But you don't have to imagine it. Take a look at these fabulous places! Your plans can include these tall palms. To photo-capture your own palm tree sunsets, beachside palms or streets lined with immense palms.

When did Los Angeles Get Palm Trees?

Palms first surfaced in Southern California with the arrival of Spanish missionaries.

But most of those tall palm trees in Los Angeles began as a loving story. In LA, these iconic palms represent a tropical oasis.

Some live up to an impressive 100-150 years old. These palms have captivated fans worldwide. But recently they're presenting problems.

These tall palms were planted for the summer Olympics in 1932. To awe visitors with Los Angeles's beauty & atmosphere. They'd look up at these Mexican Fan Palms and feel the aura. But now, there are other problems with all these palms. City planners had reasons for a second look.

These LA palms are facing criticism.

• Yes, they're beautiful & aesthetically pleasing. 
• A famed presence along and near Southern California shorelines.
• But their shadiness doesn't nearly equal what typical shade trees offer. Which is especially needed in recent times.

So Los Angeles is taking a second look. Particularly with the recent fire problems.

The Outlook for Palm Trees in Los Angeles

Now almost 92 years old, these Tall Palm Trees in California are getting near their biological expiration dates.

The planning for eventual replacement is in process. To create more shade for Los Angeles in the future. With broadly spreading, yet drought-tolerant trees. To address current environmental concerns.

For palm tree admirers (As we all definitely are ??! Right?), there's a glimmer of hope that all Los Angeles palm trees won't disappear.

Former UC extension advisor, horticulturist Donald Hodel, believes palms will still have their place in Los Angeles. He says for touristy reasons, Los Angeles palm trees portray an "idea that Southern California is a paradise on earth.… That’s going to sell." And bring on the visitors!

We're glad to hear palms will always have their place under the Californian sun.

Think about all the places you'll go.

Los Angeles view toward the East, at Crenshaw near Leimert - Many are aging now.

Beverly Hills California Things to Do

You'll get Vibes of That Rich, Famous Appeal.

Surrounded by Los Angeles, it's central to all you'd want to see & do. Including these lofty palms.

As for palms, This City Takes Them Seriously! Residential streets are known for them all around. Walking around the area, you'll be enveloped by these palmy towering greens.

You can Search Many Places to Stay, from budget to highest end!

Beverly Hills is a picture-perfect setting.

Though it's not on the beach (10 miles away), Beverly Hills - get that meaning? It sits amidst hills where you'll see stunning views of the Pacific!

Have you Dreamed of Being There? You can do it!

The Beverly Hills Hotel is a deluxe stay for seeing tall palms. On Sunset Blvd.

Pacific Coast Beach Towns for Tall Palms

Lots of Cool Towns in Southern California are near the beach.

For instance, small town Capitola with 2 Gorgeous Beaches. We loved it there! Exquisite beaches are right out the door, or within 1/2 mile drive or so.

Think of Driving the Iconic Pacific Coast Highway. We've done that many times! It takes you through many great little beach towns where you'll catch scenes of those soaring palms.

A great drive on the PCH!
Tall palms seen along beachside parking area in Santa Barbara.

Venice Beach california things to do

One of the beaches famed for tall palm trees in California is this one: Venice Beach. A favorite pastime is strolling the oceanfront walkway. How about An Electric Bike Tour?

Tall Palms Along the Walkway at Venice Beach. Click to Stay Around Here!
Image Credit: Nicki Mannix

What Is Santa Monica known for?

Tall palms front Santa Monica Beach - View it from Palisades Park above.

Local sandy beaches have full-grown palms scattered behind beach blankets.

• You'll think you've Walked Onto a Film Set. As these elegant giants become part of your day.
• Or have you stepped into a postcard? You may think you've discovered your kind of paradise!
• But don't just imagine it. You can Plan That Awesome Trip.

San Diego for Tall Palms & More

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Having lived just south of there, in Imperial Beach, we can't help but suggest that gorgeous City of San Diego.

So many enjoyable places here! San Diego has picturesque neighborhoods, with character.

Palms scattered all over the place! We've always loved visiting these beach towns we recommend.

• Del Mar (we've won a few nice $$ at their famed race track!).

• Carlsbad Village (we'd visit there pretty often).

• And Leucadia.
• We also recommend the authentic, offbeat Vibe of Hillcrest to Flashy La Jolla.

Enter North Park! Another SD neighborhood for quirky restaurants & friendly people.

Where Can I Watch the Best Sunset in San Diego

How about a palmy sunset over the ocean?

Watch the horizon as evening turns to night from Sunset Cliffs. In the south side of Ocean Beach. Get that pic of silhouetted tall palm trees against bewitching hues as the sun sets.

One Overlook at Sunset Cliffs in OB

Thrilling Viewpoints from Point Loma Peninsula

Don't forget Point Loma has even more stunning views at a Fabulous National Monument.

Overlooking the ocean, San Diego Bay & the city! And so much more, I can't even begin to describe it without running out of room!

San Diego Bay From a Viewpoint at Cabrillo National Monument at the Very End of Point Loma

Caring for Tall Palm Trees in California

Several things need to be considered when you are figuring out if these tall palms in California will be good for your property.

Homeowners, do you have landscape space for these Tallest of All Palms in California?

If you're thinking of planting a towering palm, go with Smart Landscape Planning.

Do You Think This Home's Landscape Fits Well With These Tall Palms?

Begin with a small plant.

Also, check our section here, on California Fan Palm Growth rate. To see how long it takes to transform the sapling into a tower.

As they say: it's the price of paradise! 

You'll enjoy the wildlife these tall palms attract as they grow. Like nesting birds & pollinators. Our Ezine Detailed Our Friend's Experience with palm wildlife & her other harrowing palm experiences.

Planting and Transplanting Tall Palm Trees

If they're already tall when you order one, consider a professional planting service. Be sure they're knowledgeable about Planting Palm Trees.

Watering and Fertilizing Needs

These skyward palms are resilient in drought conditions when established.

But younger palms require consistent watering. Think of the cost hike in your water bill! I know we've definitely noticed that.

And remember, these tall palms want full sun.

Pruning and Maintaining Tall Palm Trees

If you place any types of California tall palms, consider the need of trimming off old fronds. Depending on your taste. That's a cost as well.

Should you try your own physical effort for Pruning High-Up Fronds?

Takeaways for These Tall Palm Trees in California

We palm lovers are often fascinated by the tall palm trees in California. Looking way up at them. Getting the feel of warmth, relaxation, and that unique SoCal charm.

These tall California palms are distinctive for much more than SoCal's appeal.

• They entice you to Visit for California Aura, beaches & views.
• They stand tall amid the city hubbub.
• They lure you in to try them in your own landscape.
• They embody the relaxed exotic allure that is just so… Californian!

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