Family: Arecaceae
Common Name: Saw Palmetto

This low-growing fan palm, native to the south-east of North America is most unusual, as the stems tend to be prostrate and creeping, eventually forming large colonies.

Species

S. repens, the only species, is rather like Sabal minor, which occurs in the same region of North America. It is distinguishable from that species by its toothed leaf stalks, its semi-prostrate, above-ground trunks, its more conspicuous white flowers, and its larger, egg-shaped, black fruits. The upright, fan-shaped leaves range in colour from green to blueish green to silver. This interesting palm is well suited to exposed, coastal situations.

Cultivation

Serenoa will grow in any soil, provided it is well drained, but prefers full sun or semi-shade. It does not tolerate frost, so in climates prone to frost, grow in an intermediate greenhouse, in a pot of soil-based compost. Propagate from seed or suckers.

Climate

Zone 9.