Roystonea maisiana
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Roystonea maisiana faces severe population decline due to extensive habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in Cuba. The species is further threatened by overcollection for ornamental use, as these palms are highly valued in landscaping projects. Climate change poses an additional risk through altered precipitation patterns and increased hurricane intensity, which can devastate the remaining fragmented populations.
Habitat
This endemic Cuban palm inhabits lowland tropical forests and woodland areas, typically growing in well-drained soils at elevations below 200 meters. The species is adapted to the humid subtropical climate of western Cuba, where it forms part of the native forest canopy structure.
