About
This slow-growing, single-stemmed palm, forming a large, rough-trunked tree to 30m tall in its native warm temperate USA. It bears compact, spherical heads of many fan-shaped leaves to 2m long. Borderline hardy in a very sheltered spot, elsewhere it is best grown in a cool greenhouse or conservatory.
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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typePalms
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toSE USA to Cuba
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added limestone chippings, in full light. During the growing season water freely and apply a high-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; water moderately at other times. Outdoors, grow in moderately fertile soil in a sunny, sheltered corner; provide winter protection when young. See palm cultivation indoors and palm cultivation outdoors
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 20°C in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and scale insects
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free