Mysterious disease killing South Carolina's state tree

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By Associated Press

Story Published: Jul 23, 2008 at 3:00 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jul 23, 2008 at 4:03 PM EDT

MIAMI (AP)- The sabal palm, Florida and South Carolina's state tree, is under attack by a microscopic killer that has scientists stumped.

An unknown but growing number of sabal palms in the Tampa Bay
area have died from a mysterious disease.

Even after scientists pinpoint the disease, they will have to learn what insect spreads it.

The disease will be tough to stop.

A University of Florida plant pathologist, Monica Elliott, says it's not likely the disease will be completely eradicated.

Sabal palms, also known as cabbage palms, can grow to 50 feet.

In the U.S., they can be found from the Florida Keys to North
Carolina, which would include Georgia's coast.

The palm is featured in Florida's state seal and was designated the state tree in the 1950s.

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