Sabal maritima

This very robust Sabal is native to Jamaica and Cuba. It is one of the thick trunked Caribbean palms, which also includes S. causiarum and S. domingensis. The name “maritima” refers to its maritime or coastal habitat, but in reality it grows from the coast to 2000 ft. The light tan to nearly white scales on the base of its petioles are are an excellent diagnostic character for separating this species from the other Sabal species. Its larger fan leaves, longer petioles, thicker trunks and petiole scales help to distinguish it from our native Sabal palmetto.

Weight: 7.8 oz.