Sabal etonia aka Dwarf Palmetto

Sabal etonia, or scrub palmetto, is a small evergreen palm. It belongs to the palm family, Arecaceae. Its native range lies in central and southeastern Florida. It grows on sandy ridges in pine and oak scrub. These sites drain well but hold water deeper underground. The species also grows in the Ocala National Forest. Its low, shrubby form suits gardens with limited space.

Garden plants reach about 4 feet (1.22 metres) tall. Their spread reaches about 5 feet (1.52 metres). The trunk and growing bud usually stay below ground. PACSOA reports rare exposed trunks reaching about 10 feet (3 metres). Each plant carries four to seven broad, fan-shaped leaves. The yellow-green leaves can span 3 feet (0.91 metres). They are costapalmate, with a midrib extending into each blade. Each leaf has 25 to 50 stiff, narrow segments. These pointed segments join near the base. Fine threads form along their edges. Plants seldom produce suckers.

White flowers appear from May to June. They have a scent and add interest beyond the leaves. The fruit is a small, dry berry with thin, sweet flesh. PFAF gives no confirmed food-use records for this species. Its suggested food and fibre uses come from another palm. Those reports do not establish uses for scrub palmetto. PFAF lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. That does not confirm safety for people or pets.

Grow this palm in full sun or partial shade. Missouri Botanical Garden reports the best growth in partial shade. Rich, fairly fertile soil with good drainage supports growth. Keep that soil evenly moist, though dry sand also suits it. Established plants can withstand drought. The listed hardiness range is USDA zones 8 to 11. Sheltered plants may survive zone 7b with winter mulch. Use it alone, in groups, or in containers. Its evergreen leaves give the garden form through winter.

Serious pest and disease problems are not reported. Scale insects, mites, and leaf skeletonizers can still occur. Seed provides a way to raise new plants. Sow fresh seed in warmth; stored seed germinates slowly. Fresh seed may take three to four months to sprout. A long taproot forms before the shoot appears. PFAF advises greenhouse care through the first two winters. Set young plants out after the last expected frost.