The Caribbean pine tree (Pinus caribaea) is prominent in pine forests located in the Sierra de los Organos in the Isle of Youth. It may also be known as the Cuban pine or Pitch pine and usually stands from 65.6 to 98.4 feet tall. It is a fast growing species that can be used for fuelwood or wood pulp in building and can be used to manufacture gum, turpentine and other oils. The leaf oils can be extracted and used for medicinal baths, and the seeds of the Pinus caribaea may be consumed. Pine needles which naturally fall from this tree serve as a protection against soil surface erosion.
The Rare Cork Palm (Microcycas calocoma) is prevalent in the western portion of Cuba and has existed since prehistoric times. It may also be known as Palma corcho and is currently an endangered species for two reasons. One reason is due to habitat destruction, particularly related to pesticide use. The other reason is that this plant appears to set little or no seed. The yellowish brown seed cones are unique in appearance, as they looks similar to a large corn-on-the-cob. The cork palm stand about 32.8 feet tall with a 23.6 inch diameter base.
The Custard Apple (Annona muricata) lives in the humid tropical lowlands, coastal slopes and garden areas on volcanos. It is planted for its fruit and native to Cuba, where it often is served as a dessert or mixed with ice cream or milk to become a drink. Custard apple is also used as medicine to treat scabies and skin conditions, distention and dyspepsia, rheumatism and the common cold. The crushed leaves may be used to treat mature boils and abscesses when directly applied to the area. Although it is planted throughout the world, the custard apple remains rare due to its intolerability to frost.
