Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
Saw Palmetto
is a small, decorative
palm native to the
southeastern US. The
fan-shaped leaves
are usually 1-2’ wide
with saw-like teeth
along the stem.
Saw Palmettos are
easy-to-grow in the
garden, or in a large
pot in the north.
In spring or early
summer, small, fragrant
flowers emerge
on tall flower stalks attracting bees and pollinating insects. Once the flowers
have passed, yellow berries appear that turn black and ripen in late summer. Saw
Palmetto extract is used to treat certain types of prostate conditions. The berries
are also a food source for birds and other wildlife.