Sabal minor (Jacq.) Pers.

  • Family: Arecaceae (palm)
  • Common name: dwarf palmetto
  • Synonyms: Sabal adansonii, S. deeringiana, S. glabra, S. louisiana, Corypha minor

    Shrub with underground stem. Leaves to 1 m (3 ft) across and extending about 1 m above ground, palmately divided into numerous narrow segments. Flowers small, in a panicle on a scape to 1 m tall, blooming in late Spring. Fruits numerous drupes about 6-8 mm (0.3-0.4 in) in diameter, ripening in Fall.

    Distribution: Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain north to North Carolina and west to Texas.
    Habitat: oak-hickory forests on the coastal plain.
    Comment: This is the only member of the palm family native to Oklahoma. Sabal is an old name of obscure origin; minor refers to its small size.
    NWI status: FACW

    Distribution in Oklahoma:

    BACK
    NEXT
    RETURN TO INDEX
    Last update: 9/17/99
    Go to Oklahoma Biological Survey Home Page
    Disclaimer