Pseudophoenix sargentii

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Pseudophoenix sargentii, commonly known as the Florida cherry palm or buccaneer palm, is a medium-sized palm native to the northern Caribbean, eastern Mexico, and extreme southeast Florida. It typically grows along the coast on sandy or limestone soils, reaching up to about 8 meters tall with a ringed trunk up to 30 cm in diameter. It has yellow flowers in loose clusters.

Conservation status and population: Globally it is listed as Vulnerable (IUCN 3.1 and NatureServe). In Florida it is considered critically endangered. Historically in Florida, it occurred on Elliott Key, Long Key, and Sands Key in the Keys. A large population on Long Key was destroyed in the early 20th century when plants were dug up and sold as ornamentals. Today, the only natural population remaining in Florida is on Elliott Key, with fewer than 50 individuals. Populations in Haiti and Navassa Island are thought to be extirpated.

Uses: Pseudophoenix sargentii is cultivated as an ornamental palm for private gardens, habitat gardens, and various landscape and restoration projects.