The sabal palmetto tree is the state tree of South Carolina. It was selected as the state tree to celebrate the role it played in the defeat of the British at Fort Moultrie during the lead up to the American Revolution. The fort, which was being bombarded by the British fleet, was constructed of palmetto logs. The tree’s spongy wood actually absorbed the energy of the cannonballs and caused them to just bounce off — allowing the Americans to eventually drive the British ships away and win the inspiring battle.
A local's eye view
