Plants The vascular plant flora includes around 61 species native to the 22 vegetated islands, and around 69 introduced species - most living on West and Home Island.
Due to the remoteness of Cocos Keeling Islands, locals have learned to value what’s available. The beach almond or ketapang seeds offer an edible kernel that often washes up on the beaches. The hardwood of the Pemphis Acidula, which can be found on the lagoon shore, is used to make knife handles and walking canes due to its resistance to rot and warping.
Plants Cordia Subcordata or Ironwood has been harvested extensively at the time of settlement for its strong, termite-resistant wood and is also an important seabird nesting tree.
Other plants and trees such as the beach calophyllum also provide shelter and food for local and vagrant animal species. White terns favour the tree for its nesting possibilities while crabs enjoy its seeds.
