Serenoa repens, commonly known as saw palmetto, is a small palm, growing to a maximum height around 200–300 cm (6.6–9.8 ft).

It is endemic to the subtropical and tropical Southeastern United States as well as Mexico,[4] most commonly along the south Atlantic and Gulf Coastal plains and sand hills.

It grows in clumps or dense thickets in sandy coastal areas, and as undergrowth in pine woods or hardwood hammocks.

The petiole is armed with fine, sharp teeth or spines that give the species its common name.

[12] The leaves are used for thatching by several indigenous groups, so commonly that a location in Alachua County, Florida, is named Kanapaha ("palm house").