About

A very slow-growing palm to a height of up to 3m, with green palmate leaves. The whiteish-green flowers are perfumed. This adds to its hardiness. A short trunk can develop later. The leaves apprear to come from underground as the trunk remains underground when young.

About the genus

Sabal are a genus of 17 recognised species of slow-growing and fairly hardy fan-palms, native to the tropical and sub-tropical Americas. The leaves have midribs, extending into the leaf blade, which sets them apart from other palms. Fruits are hanging and mature from green to red

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeSand, Loam, Chalk
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline, Acid
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typePalms
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Sub-tropical
Native toS Oklahoma to SE USA
FragranceFlower

Care notes

CultivationOnly puts growth on in temeperatures over 28°C, but tolerates winter temperatures of down to -20°C. Grow in moist neutral to alkaline soil in part shade or sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free