Sabal Palm

Overview

Sabal palm, also called cabbage palm, is Florida's state tree and one of the best adapted palms for Tampa. Mature palms commonly reach 40 to 60 feet. They tolerate heat, wind, salt spray, drought, and a wide range of Florida soils.

Where to Use It

Use sabal palms as tall accents, street trees, entry markers, or groups around large homes and commercial properties. Their narrow trunks fit spaces where broad tree canopies would create conflicts. Place them away from overhead lines and allow room for falling fronds.

Light, Soil, and Water

Plant in full sun or light shade. Sabal palms accept sandy, alkaline, and periodically wet soil. Newly transplanted palms need disciplined watering while new roots develop. Established palms need little irrigation in normal Tampa conditions.

Planting and Care

Spring through early summer provides warm soil for root growth. Do not over-prune. Remove only fully brown fronds and flower or fruit stalks when necessary. Never cut green fronds above the horizontal line because excessive pruning weakens the palm.

Important Considerations

Large transplanted sabal palms might look thin for a period while establishing. Correct planting depth matters. Keep the root initiation zone at its original level. Learn more from UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions.