shrub

Bear Creek Palmetto

Sabal minor 'Bear Creek'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Southeastern US

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Sabal minor, commonly known as Dwarf Palmetto, is a slow-growing, evergreen palm with fan-shaped, deeply divided fronds and small, clustered flowers that produce black berries in late summer. The 'Bear Creek' cultivar is distinguished by its vigorous growth habit and enhanced cold tolerance, making it suitable for a wider range of garden environments compared to typical Sabal minor.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, tropical greenery year-round, enhancing landscape texture and visual interest.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens.

Provides habitat for birds and beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young plants into well-draining soil.
Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Ensure full sun exposure for optimal growth.
Fertilize annually with a balanced palm fertilizer.
Prune dead or damaged fronds as needed.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune dead fronds to maintain appearance

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Refrain from fertilizing excessively

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical-themed borderDrought-tolerant accentPrivacy screen

Companion Plants

Agave Yucca Ornamental grasses Crotons Bamboo

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bear Creek Palmetto questions

What zones can Bear Creek Palmetto grow in?

Bear Creek Palmetto is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bear Creek Palmetto deer resistant?

Yes — Bear Creek Palmetto is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Bear Creek Palmetto bloom?

Bear Creek Palmetto typically blooms in mid-summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Bear Creek Palmetto need full sun?

Bear Creek Palmetto does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Bear Creek Palmetto drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bear Creek Palmetto handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.