The fruit of saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is often called a berry. Technically, it is a drupe, a fruit with a single seed that is enclosed within a hard shell and is surrounded by a fleshy outer layer. Think peach,…
Berry, Bolito, or Drupe?
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Epicuticular Wax: Silver or Green
Both "silver"and green saw palmettos (Serenoa repens) can be found growing at the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area. They are the same species. What is going on? You cannot tell what's going on with a magnifying glass or hand lens. You…
Love Lovebugs
Lots of insects visit the sweetly fragrant flowers of saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) including lovebugs (Plecia nearctica). Lovebugs emerge in large numbers twice a year: Late spring (April/May) and fall (August/September). Male lovebugs emerge before the females. Once coupled, the…
The Sweet Scent of Saw Palmetto
Now is the time when the sweet scent of saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) perfumes the air. This usually low-growing palm (repens means reclining) grows throughout the entire state of Florida. It is endemic to southeastern U.S. from Louisiana to North…
