Rules and licenses
The sabal palm is the state tree you keep seeing
Florida's official state tree is the sabal palm, the familiar native palm that shows up in yards, roadsides, public seals, and everyday views.
The sabal palm is one of those Florida things people stop noticing because it is everywhere.
It is the official state tree. Florida law also ties the sabal palmetto palm to the state seal. UF/IFAS identifies sabal palm, also called cabbage palm, as native to Florida and other coastal parts of the Southeast.
That makes it more than a landscaping habit. You see it by roads, in yards, near public buildings, in parks, and in the background of many Florida photos. It can look casual, but it carries several layers at once: state symbol, native plant, shade tree, storm survivor, and yard-care question.
For homeowners, the practical side is simple. Do not treat every palm like a decoration that can be moved or trimmed without thought. A palm in a yard may touch local tree rules, HOA rules, utility clearance, disease questions, or a landscape plan.
If you are planting, removing, or trimming one, check local rules and UF/IFAS guidance first. The state tree is common, but the right move still depends on the address and the condition of the tree.
Where to see it
Neighborhood streets, public landscapes, parks, and state-symbol displays across Florida. Check local tree rules, HOA rules, and planting guidance before removing or adding palms on a property.
Official sources
- Florida Statute 15.031 - State tree
- UF/IFAS Ask IFAS - Sabal or Cabbage Palm
- Florida Statute 15.03 - State seal
Last checked against these sources: July 2, 2026.