Thatch palm (Sabal yapa, Webbia 2: 64 (1907))

Family: Arecaceae

Author: C.Wright ex Becc.

Bibliography: Webbia 2: 64 (1907)

Year: 1907

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Sabal

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Mexico to Belize, W. Cuba

Description

The Thatch Palm, scientifically known as Sabal yapa, is a fascinating species within the family Arecaceae. First described by the renowned botanist C. Wright and further detailed by Beccari in the bibliographic reference Webbia 2: 64 (1907), this palm is notable for its ecological and cultural significance in the regions where it naturally occurs.

Sabal yapa is predominantly found in the southeastern parts of Mexico, extending through Belize, and reaching into the western regions of Cuba. These areas provide the subtropical to tropical climate conditions that are optimal for its growth. The Thatch Palm thrives in environments ranging from coastal areas to inland regions, showcasing its adaptability to different soil types and moisture levels.

Characterized by its sturdy and fan-shaped leaves, the Thatch Palm is often utilized in thatching, which has given this palm its common name. The thatching practice involves the leaves being woven together to create roofing materials, demonstrating the plant’s historical and ongoing importance in local construction and craft. This not only highlights its economic value but also its role in sustainable building practices.

Ecologically, Sabal yapa contributes significantly to its habitat. The palm provides shelter and food for various species of wildlife, including birds and insects. The flowers of the Thatch Palm attract pollinators, while its fruit serves as a food source for animals, thereby playing a vital part in the local ecosystem’s food web.

In summary, the Thatch Palm (Sabal yapa) is an essential species within the Arecaceae family, with a presence that spans southeastern Mexico, Belize, and western Cuba. Not only is it important for its ecological contributions and adaptability to its environment, but it also holds cultural and economic significance through its use in thatching and other traditional practices.

Common Names

Por: sabal-maia
Spa: bay, botan, cana, cana japa, chagareta, guano blanco, guano bonshan, miraguano, palma cana, palma cana del monte, palma guano
Eng: thatch palm
En: Thatch palm
Pt: Sabal-maia
Es: Bay, Botan, Cana, Cana japa, Chagareta, Guano blanco, Guano bonshan, Miraguano, Palma cana, Palma cana del monte, Palma guano

Synonyms

• Sabal japa (C.Wright)
• Sabal mayara (Bartlett)
• Inodes yapa ((C.Wright ex Becc.) Standl.)
• Sabal peregrina (L.H.Bailey)
• Sabal yucatanica (L.H.Bailey)

Distribution

• Belize (native)
• Cuba (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Apr 2, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 5, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 11, 2020 by Moreno Torres Harry Alberto (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2732498)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60440702-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Sabal yapa C.Wright ex Becc.)

Specifications

Growth