Today, we’re diving into what makes the sabal palmetto special—from its biology and wildlife value to its cultural history—and how Floridians can help protect and support this iconic native plant. 

Learn More:

• What is a tree? https://extension.usu.edu/forestry/trees-cities-towns/tree-selection/what-is-a-tree
• Sabal palmetto: Sabal or Cabbage Palm https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST575
• Sorting out the Florida Sabal Palms https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR357

How You Can Help:

• If you’re adding palms to your landscaping, consider adding a native cabbage palm instead of a nonnative palm.
• Protect what’s growing – Remember, sabal palm trunks do not self-heal like “normal” trees would – take care to avoid damaging them! Defend them against weedwhackers and other trauma.
• Practice responsible pruning - Don’t remove green fronds unnecessarily; fronds provide food and energy for the palm. Unless the frond is dry and brown,the tree still needs it. If you MUST prune, prune responsibly – only fronds that hang down and have already started to die off. (Learn more)
• Support conservation, Observe, andAppreciate our State Tree - Take a moment to notice sabal palms in your community—and thebirds and wildlife they support.

Sources:

• Cabbage palm – Sabal palmetto ⁠ https://ffgs.ifas.ufl.edu/tree-tour/cabbage-palm/
• Sabal Palm ⁠ https://www.nps.gov/places/000/sabal-palm.htm
• Sabal palmetto: Investigating the ecological importanceof Florida’s state tree ⁠https://www.proquest.com/openview/22f53c0e4a34046d4bb033c747102003/1?cbl=18750&pq-origsite=gscholar
• https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST575
• https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR357