Cabbage Palm Tree Facts
The cabbage palm tree is a familiar sight throughout the southern United States from Florida to California, along sea shores and as a fine landscaping tree. This handsome tree is one of the most storm resistant trees and is beneficial to people and wildlife alike. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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Early settlers of the southern United States were sustained in part by the heart of the cabbage palm, a native to North America. Settlers frequently made a cabbage palm stew which is still made in some parts of Florida.
Description
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On average, the height of the cabbage palm tree is between 30 and 40 feet, and its crown is between 10 and 15 feet wide. In summer, the cabbage palm tree blooms creamy flower stalks that are 4 to 5 feet long. After blooming season, the tree develops shiny, greenish-black fruits which are avidly sought as food by wildlife.
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Hardiness
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The hardiness zones of the cabbage palm tree are zones 8B through 11 (see Resources). It is relatively resistant to pests, although it can sometimes be bothered by the giant palm weevil or cabbage palm caterpillar. It is also disease resistant but occasionally can be infected with ganoderma butt rot disease.
Considerations
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Because of its ability to withstand hurricane force winds and tropical storms, the cabbage palm makes an attractive tree for residents of hurricane zone areas.
Fun Fact
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The cabbage palm tree is the official state tree of Florida and South Carolina.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Photo by W. Bumgarner (zsinj on Wikipedia Commons)
