Saw Palmettos

Saw Palmettos (Serenoa repens) are smaller palms, usually no more than 10-15 feet (3-4.5 m) tall. They are named for the prickly saw-like edges of their leaf stems. There are two color variations: most have green or yellowish-green fronds, but about 20% have fronds of bluish-silver, especially on the east coast of Florida. They are the most abundant palm species in the United States. In Florida, Saw Palmettos are a source of shelter and/or food for Sand Skinks, Florida Mice, Fox Squirrels, Cottontail Rabbits, Black Bears, and White-tailed Deer.