Saw Palmetto

Serenoa repens, the saw palmetto, is a slow-growing, fan-leaved palm native to the southeastern United States. It often forms a low, spreading clump from creeping stems, with foliage that may be green, blue-green, or silvery. [UF/IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP547) describes its landscape uses, site tolerances, flowers, and wildlife value. ## Form and landscape Saw palmetto can be used as a groundcover, shrub, small tree, specimen, or buffer planting. Its fan-shaped leaves and creeping growth make it useful in naturalistic and coastal landscapes. The U.S. Forest Service reports that it usually grows as a shrub, with occasional taller tree-like forms. ## Flowers and wildlife Small white flowers appear in spring and are followed by blue-black fruit. UF/IFAS notes that the flowers and fruit attract bees, birds, and other wildlife. ## Growing conditions UF/IFAS lists full sun to partial shade, broad soil adaptability, and high drought tolerance after establishment. It also describes moderate to high salt tolerance and a wide range of soil pH tolerance. ## Maintenance Allow space for the clump to spread and use care around the sharp leaf stalks. Water while establishing; once established, its drought tolerance reduces the need for supplemental irrigation.