Saw Palmetto

Serenoa repens (W. Bartram) Small

sair-ah-NO-ah REE-pens

Arecaceae

Explanation of name: Sereno Watson was a prominent American botanist in the 19^th Century. Repens means creeping.

Natural range: Southeastern U.S. Numerous habitats, including pine woods, hammock, and scrub

Recognition: This is the dwarf palmetto that covers much of Florida. It is distinguished from other dwarf, costapalmate palms by having sawtooth leaf margins. See discussion of similar species under Sabal palmetto. The branching trunk is usually horizontal or nearly so, although it can rise vertically. Leaf colors range from deep green to silvery gray.

Landscape uses: A useful “groundcover” for large areas, including challenging sites. The silvery form is especially popular. Few plants are more natural to our area. Authors note that they are difficult to transplant when large (BR1, MEE).

Notes: The fruits are valued in the health food industry for prostate remedies. They are collected commercially, sometimes illegally, in Florida. The white flowers are attractive to bees.