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Sabal mexicana Mexican palmetto Evergreen tree (1 Page of 5) The Sabal mexicana plant species is found in Southern N. America - Texas to Mexico and Guatemala. It is a member of the Palmae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Mexican palmetto. Some home gardeners know the variety as S. texana. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Sabal mexicana Common Name: Mexican palmetto Family: Palmae Author: Mart. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 10 Mature Width: 4 Habitat: Rich soil of the bottom lands near the coast[82].
Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in most fertile moist but well-drained soils in a sheltered sunny position[188, 200, 231]. Although it prefers a humid atmosphere, this species is tolerant of arid atmospheres so long as it has plenty of moisture available at the roots[231].
Plants from the north of its range (in Texas) have a reasonably marginal frost-tolerance and might be suitable for growing outdoors in the very mildest areas of the country[231].
Palms usually have deep penetrating root systems and generally establish best when planted out at a young stage. However, older plants are substantially more cold tolerant than juvenile plants[231]. In areas at the limit of their cold tolerance, therefore, it is prudent to grow the plants in containers for some years, giving them winter protection, and only planting them into their permanent positions when sheer size dictates[231]. This species can also be transplanted even when very large. Although the thick fleshy roots are easily damaged and/or dessicated, new roots are generally freely produced. It is important to stake the plant very firmly to prevent rock, and also to give it plenty of water until re-established - removing many of the leaves can also help[231].
A very variable plant in the wild[231].
For further Sabal mexicana gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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