Sabal etonia
 
Common Names Scrub Palmetto, Florida Scrub Palm
 
Zones 8b–11
 
A compact, shrubby fan palm endemic to Florida’s sand pine scrub, Sabal etonia is a keystone species in one of the state’s most endangered habitats. It features a subterranean trunk, stiff costapalmate leaves, and fragrant spring flowers followed by glossy black fruit. Its drought tolerance and low profile make it ideal for xeric landscapes, native restoration, and wildlife gardens.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; trunk subterranean or rarely exposed; slow-growing
Height: 3–4 ft (0.9–1.2 m); occasionally to 6 ft (1.8 m) in cultivation
Trunk: Underground; S-shaped or contorted; crown bud below soil surface
Leaves: Costapalmate; 4–7 per crown; 25–50 rigid, pointed segments with thread-like filaments; up to 3 ft (0.9 m) wide
Inflorescence: Fragrant white flowers; branched to 2 orders; shorter than or equal to leaf height
Fruit: Black drupes; 0.4–0.6 in (9–15 mm) diameter; spherical to ovoid
Ecology: Native to central and southeastern Florida; found in dry, sandy scrub with deep water table; associated with Quercus geminata, Serenoa repens, and Ceratiola ericoides2
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: Low; drought tolerant once established
Soil: Dry, well-drained sandy soils; tolerates poor fertility
Temperature: Hardy to ~15°F (–9°C)
Humidity: Tolerant of dry air
Propagation: By seed; slow germination
Tolerance: Drought, poor soils, fire-adapted
 
Landscape Use Ideal for native plant gardens, xeriscapes, and Florida scrub restoration. Provides evergreen structure and wildlife value. Pairs well with Serenoa repens, Opuntia stricta, and Quercus minima.