ABSTRACT
Saw palmetto is native to the coastal plain of the southeastern United States, occurring in southern Alabama, Florida, southeastern Georgia, southeastern Louisiana, southern Mississippi, and South Carolina. The species is most abundant in Florida, where it is present in every county, not just coastal areas. Saw palmetto thrives in disturbed areas, including those that have been clear-cut and burned. It also grows as a weed in pastures and for centuries it was regarded as an obstacle to urbanization and farming, and vigorous attempts were made at eradication. Indigenous peoples in the natural geographical range of saw palmetto consumed the fruits, fresh or in processed products. Saw palmetto is the most common palm in North America north of Mexico, and in the southeastern United States it is a very widespread wild plant.
