In spite of having 5,600 different plant species in the Dominican Republic, only the Mahogany tree?s blossom is officially recognized as the national flower; there is no national tree. Among most flower lovers, and among the three botanists consulted by the List?n Diario, there is plenty of discord as to the choice of the national flower and the lack of a national tree. The mahogany flower is very small, hard to see and not particularly attractive, say its detractors. As a symbol, it lacks visibility, unlike the hibiscus, the amapola, or even the flamboy?n, which covers streets and highways with its bloom. According to the article which appeared in the Vida section of the List?n, there are four candidates for the title of national tree: the Palma Real (Royal Palm), the ?bano Verde (Green Ebony), the Yagrumo, and the Mamey. The last two on the list, generally unknown to the average reader, are quite interesting. The yagrumo is a hollow tree with huge leaves that grows quickly and allows other species to grow alongside. It can be seen along the Duarte highway before reaching Villa Altagracia. The hollow branches and trunks are used as floater for fishing nets or as tubing for irrigation. The Mamey is one of the first trees described in early colonial history. Fern?ndez de Oviedo described the fruit-bearing tree as ?sacred? to the Ta?no Indians.