The genus Pseudophoenix (4–6 spp.) is a component of coastal vegetation in the northern Caribbean Basin. In many of its habitats it is threatened by coastal development, grazing and over-exploitation for its sweet sap and for use as an ornamental palm. Fairchild Tropical Garden is overseeing a long-term plan to monitor existing populations in Florida and reintroduce appropriate genotypes into protected habitats where the species once grew. The genus was revised in 1968, but new collections suggest a reassessment of its taxonomy and distribution are needed. The distinctions between P. sargentii ssp. sargentii and ssp. saonae cannot be maintained and the two subspecies will be combined. Nevertheless, isolated populations of P. sargentii formerly known as P. gracilis (.le de La Gonâve) and P. navassana (Navassa Island) merit additional taxonomic study, particularly in light of their vulnerability and threats to their survival. Finally, the first assessment of genetic diversity is presented for Pseudophoenix. Although preliminary sequencing studies of ITS, trnL–trnF spacer, and trnL intron revealed no variation among the species of Pseudophoenix, variation was found using DNA fingerprinting techniques. Genetic variation revealed by RAPD, ISSR and AFLP markers is used to compare and contrast populations of P. sargentii from throughout the range of the species.