The Silver Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a slow-growing, ornamental dwarf palm native to the southeastern United States. Known for its silvery-blue fan leaves and compact, clumping form, this palm adds a touch of tropical elegance to any landscape.
Its small black edible fruits are highly nutritious and valued for their medicinal uses, while its dense, evergreen foliage provides excellent wildlife shelter and visual texture. This low-maintenance, drought-tolerant palm is ideal for coastal gardens, desert landscapes, or container planting.
Perfect for gardeners seeking a hardy, eye-catching, and resilient tropical plant.
Features
- 🌴 Stunning Silvery Foliage: Striking silver-blue fan-shaped leaves.
- 🍇 Edible Black Fruits: Nutrient-rich berries used in herbal supplements.
- 🌞 Drought & Salt Tolerant: Excellent for coastal and arid gardens.
- 🪴 Compact Size: Ideal for small gardens, patios, and containers.
- 🐦 Wildlife Friendly: Provides food and cover for birds and pollinators.
Specifications
- Common Name: Silver Saw Palmetto / American Dwarf Palm
- Scientific Name: Serenoa repens
- Plant Type: Evergreen dwarf palm / shrub
- USDA Zones: 8 – 11
- Mature Height: 5 – 10 ft (1.5 – 3 m)
- Spread: 8 – 12 ft (2.4 – 3.6 m)
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-drained soils
- Watering: Low; drought-tolerant once established
- Foliage Color: Silvery-blue to green
- Fruit Color: Black (edible)
- GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 48 hours.
- Sowing Depth: ½ inch deep in well-draining sandy soil.
- Temperature: Maintain 75–85°F for germination.
- Watering: Keep soil lightly moist; avoid overwatering.
- Light: Bright, indirect light until established.
- Transplanting: Move to permanent location or container after seedlings reach 6 inches tall.
Care Tips
- Minimal watering once established – prefers dry conditions.
- Avoid overfertilizing; use a slow-release palm fertilizer once yearly.
- Prune only dead or damaged leaves to preserve the plant’s natural form.
- Excellent in xeriscape, coastal, or subtropical garden designs.
