Dwarf Palmetto

(Sabal minor)

Dwarf Palmetto (Sabal minor)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Sabal minor, commonly known as the Dwarf Palmetto, is a slow-growing, evergreen palm native to a variety of habitats including moist forests, riverbanks, and swamps in the deep southeastern and south-central United States as well as northeastern Mexico. It is a compact species, typically reaching up to 3 meters in height with a trunk up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) in diameter. This fan palm features leaves with a bare petiole ending in a rounded fan of numerous leaflets. The yellowish-white flowers are small, about 5 millimeters (0.20 inches) across, and bloom in large compound panicles that extend beyond the leaves. The fruit is a black drupe containing a single seed.

The Dwarf Palmetto is highly valued for its cold hardiness, making it suitable for cultivation in a range of climates, including subtropical and warm temperate regions. It can withstand temperatures near 0 °F (−18 °C) and survive brief periods down to −5 °F (−21 °C). Its ability to grow in various soil types, including those that are submerged, makes it versatile for landscape use. It is often used as an understory plant or as a naturalizing element in wet areas. In cooler zones, it benefits from full sun and a wind-sheltered location. The plant requires high amounts of water and thrives in soils with medium to slow drainage. It is less common in cultivation than other palms, but its resilience and unique appearance make it a desirable addition to gardens where a tropical effect is desired.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 5-10 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist forests, riverbanks, and swamps in the deep southeastern and south-central United States and northeastern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Bush Palmetto, Scrub Palmetto

Scientific Names: , Sabal minor, Sabal louisiana, Sabal adansonii, Sabal glabra, Sabal deeringiana, Rhapis acaulis, Corypha minor, Corypha pumila, Rhapis arundinacea

GBIF Accepted Name: Sabal minor (Jacq.) Pers.