The Flower of Holguin, Beauty Flower

Almost 20 years ago, it was discovered in the highlands of Pinares de Mayari, a site located about 100 kilometers from the province of Holguin in eastern Cuba, and protected by a special microclimate. It is beautiful and attractive. So small that anyone would shudder at their delicate petals and its elongated leaves. It is called Jazmin del Pinar or Manzanillo. Its flower is red, a color representing the protection of nature and green leaves ecosystem conservation, international symbols of environment. It was about two decades ago when it was proposed, including five species, that the Jazmín del Pinar was choosen as the Flower of Holguin, for being delicate and esave a historic legend that dates back to the time of the mambises. The flower of Holguin had to be unique to this province and should have had participation and legend in the historical and cultural life of the territory. Finally, it was needed to find among its features aesthetic values such as beauty. It was first discovered and collected in 1909 in Pinares de Mayari by JF Shafir, along the road of Piedra Gorda to Minas Woodfred, in Pinares de Mayari, at an altitude of about 400 or 500 feet above the Sea. But this flower saves more history. According to a survey made to farmers in Pinares de Mayari, the milky latex of this plant was used by the mambises to cause stomach upset to the Spanish soldiers. This delicate flower has been chosen on many occasions to pay tribute to martyrs and heroes of the nation for its significance among the symbols of Holguin. It was also chosen to be in the arms of the province which makes its brightness special. This plant is exhibited in the Botanical Garden of Holguin and Havana. And there are some samples in the Botanical Garden of Montreal, Canada. Although it loves the sun and rain and flowers all year round is not yet common in our gardens or view them rule over the green areas of schools and parks. It belongs to the Pascua and Cardona families, so who cultivate this plant should treated with respect and care.