Sonora Palmetto

Sonoran palmetto (Sabal uresana), also called palma blanca, is a slow-growing fan palm native to northern Mexico. Its open crown carries strongly costapalmate, blue-green leaves. ## Identification and site The [RHS species profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/128340/sabal-uresana/details) gives the accepted name and the common names Sonoran palmetto and palma blanca. The [USDA GRIN taxonomy record](https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/taxon/taxonomydetail?id=438711) confirms its Arecaceae family and native distribution in Sonora and Chihuahua. The [University of Arizona Campus Arboretum](https://arboretum.arizona.edu/palmsmain) describes its glaucous blue-green leaves and occurrence in thorn and oak forests near watercourses and valleys. Its [species spotlight](https://arboretum.arizona.edu/sites/default/files/2025-11/Species-Spotlight-December-2024-Sabal-uresana.pdf) describes spring creamy flowers, a 30–60 ft mature height range, and tolerance of heat, exposed sites, and severe frost. Its regional habitat and mature size suit large landscape settings where space permits. ## Maintenance Use a species-specific palm guide for irrigation, soil drainage, and cold protection because the botanical profile does not provide a complete growing schedule.