Sabal uresana - Sonoran Palmetto

Sabal uresana, sometimes called the Palma Blanca, is a large palm tree emblematic of the deserts of Chihuahua and Sonora, still rare in cultivation. With its numerous qualities, it definitely deserves to be planted more in our gardens. It proudly stands on these desolate expanses, with its majestic silhouette composed of a trunk adorned with geometric patterns, topped by a rounded crown of beautifully coloured arched palm fronds in shades of blue-silver when young. It is hardy down to -10°C, and even more so for older specimens, and has few soil requirements as long as it is well-drained. Despite its slow growth, it is an exceptional species for a dry and unirrigated garden, even in windy conditions. Majestic and remarkably colourful, resistant to both cold and drought, the Blue Sabal has a promising future in our gardens.

Sabal uresana, also locally known as the Sonoran Palmetto, belongs to the family of Arecaceae. It is native to Mexico, where it can be found in dry forests as well as desert areas. This palm tree, which can slowly reach a height of 10 to 15m (33 to 49ft) in some areas of Europe, can grow up to 20m (66ft) tall in its native habitat. Its growth is very slow. It is supported by a single trunk (stipe), thickened at the base, straight, massive, grey in colour and with a woven appearance. These patterns, characteristic of this species, are the remains of the dried petioles. The foliage is arranged in a terminal crown at the top of the trunk, and can eventually reach a span of 6 to 8m (20 to 26ft). The crown is composed of large costapalmate leaves, meaning palmate leaves arranged in a fan shape around a central axis. On Sabal uresana, each leaf, rough to the touch, greenish-blue to bluish-grey in colour and later turning green, is covered with a white coating. It is divided into numerous rigid segments, tapering and drooping at the tips. The petiole that bears the leaves is smooth and very visible.

Flowering, which occurs in summer on very old individuals, consists of pale yellow flowers that will give rise, in favourable climates, to round fruits, brown in colour, each containing a black pear-shaped seed. 

Its hardiness, quite commendable, certainly depends a lot on soil drainage and ambient humidity. It is a valuable species for ornamental purposes in windy and very dry southern gardens in summer, but it will also adapt very well to more watered regions, as long as the summer is hot and the winter not too harsh. Perfect by the seaside, this palm tree will also thrive inland. It can be planted on either side of a gate, as a standalone specimen near a pool, or in a large exotic bed. To accompany it, consider, for example, Agaves, Oponces, Eucalyptus, cycads and mimosas.