Description
Sabal minor, commonly known as the dwarf palmetto, is a small, trunkless or short-trunked palm that usually grows to 1–3 meters (3–10 feet) in height. It has large fan-shaped fronds that are blue-green to green, measuring about 1–1.5 meters (3–5 feet) wide. The leaves emerge from a subterranean or barely visible trunk, giving the plant a shrubby appearance. It produces tall flower stalks up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) long with small, white flowers, followed by shiny, black fruits.
Native to the southeastern United States, especially in moist woodlands, swamps, and floodplains, the dwarf palmetto is extremely cold-hardy, surviving temperatures as low as -20°C (-5°F). It is also tolerant of drought, flooding, and wind, making it highly adaptable. This hardy palm is well-suited for naturalized plantings, wet areas, and low-maintenance landscapes in both subtropical and temperate regions.