die-back over the harsh 2017–2018 winter and its height was reduced from about 8 feet using the tip of the tallest frond. This Sabal Palmetto was grown from seed from collected in Sun City Center, FL, in 2005. It was planted outside in its current location in 2009 by Eugene Zampieron.
It is in a favorable microclimate, very close to a south-facing masonry wall, and is about 500 ft from Long Island Sound with it getting protection each winter.
It is listed by Connecticut's Notable Trees website as the first plant of its species and the first palm tree on the database. It is also a Connecticut champion tree.
== Traditions ==
=== University seal ===
Bridgeport's seal combines four core elements of its traditions and distinct character. In the upper left quadrant, the lamp of learning, which has been an element of the official Bridgeport's seal since 1931, is shown. In the upper right quadrant of the seal, the tree of life is shown, symbolizing personal and institutional growth. The lower left shows Bridgeport's …
