Species

Sabal mexicanaMexican Palmetto

1 other cultivar

‘Dallas Form’Dallas Form Mexican Palmetto

shrub

Uvalde Mexican Palmetto

Sabal mexicana 'Uvalde'

Same species

Species

Sabal mexicanaMexican Palmetto

1 other cultivar

‘Dallas Form’Dallas Form Mexican Palmetto

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

360 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived tree

Native To

Southern Texas, Mexico, Central America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Sabal mexicana is a robust, slow-growing palm with a thick trunk and a large crown of costapalmate (fan-shaped) leaves. It is very adaptable to different soil types. The 'Uvalde' strain is noted for its superior cold hardiness compared to the species, potentially surviving in colder parts of zone 7.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, tropical foliage year-round, adding visual interest to gardens.

Drought tolerant, reduces water usage, and provides natural windbreaks.

Supports local wildlife by offering shelter and food for birds.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a well-draining sandy or loamy soil.
Tuck seeds or young plants into the prepared site in spring.
Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly with palm-specific fertilizer in spring.
Prune dead or damaged fronds as needed during winter.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply when soil is dry 🌱
Prune dead fronds to maintain shape
Apply palm fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Do not expose to frost without protection ❌
Avoid compacted soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical-themed borderDrought-tolerant accentPalm-lined pathway

Companion Plants

Agave Yucca Lantana Bougainvillea Ornamental grasses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Uvalde Mexican Palmetto questions

What zones can Uvalde Mexican Palmetto grow in?

Uvalde Mexican Palmetto is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Uvalde Mexican Palmetto deer resistant?

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

When does Uvalde Mexican Palmetto bloom?

Uvalde Mexican Palmetto typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Uvalde Mexican Palmetto need full sun?

Uvalde Mexican Palmetto does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Uvalde Mexican Palmetto drought tolerant?

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