Cuba is home to over 6,500 plant species, of which nearly 50% are endemic, making it one of the most botanically diverse islands in the world. The island's varied ecosystems, from coastal mangroves to mountain forests, support a remarkable botanical diversity that has evolved in isolation over millions of years. These native plants have been essential to Cuban culture, medicine, and cuisine for centuries, with many species like the Royal Palm appearing on the national emblem. The famous mogotes (limestone formations) of Viñales Valley harbor specialized plant communities found nowhere else on Earth. Cuban botanists continue to discover new species each year, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect this unique botanical heritage.