Florida’s state tree, the cabbage palm, Sabal palmetto, is one the easiest palm trees to grow. The cabbage palm is a Florida native that can reach a height of 40-50 ft. tall. Do not worry though; this is a very slow growing palm. In fact, a cabbage palm that is 30-40 ft. tall can be easily be over 150 years old! Cabbage palms have a unique place in Florida’s history. This stately palm was widely used by early pioneers and Native Americans, such as the Seminoles. I would recommend using one as a focal piece in the landscape or used in odd numbers. One of my favorite uses is to group three cabbage palms with an understory of Gulf Muhly grass or silver saw palmetto. For more information, please visit: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st575

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