The Cocos (Keeling) Islands evolved in isolation from a large land mass, and human populations only arrived a few hundred years ago. This, along with the sandy soil, helps to explain why there are only around 60 plant species recorded there. Plants that thrive on the island include Pisonia trees (Pisonia grandis), Beach Almond (Terminalia catappa) and Ironwood (Cordia subcordata).

The only plant believed to be endemic to Cocos is Pandanus tectorius var. cocosensis, commonly known as Pandanus or Screw Pine. There is, however, evidence to suggest that it may not be a distinct variety but part of the natural variation of Pandanus tectorius, a species native to eastern Australia, Indonesia and the Pacific Islands. This small tree typically grows in coastal lowlands, near the edge of the ocean, supported by prop roots that anchor it to the ground. It is dioecious, meaning that there are separate male and female plants. Male plants produce showy white bracteate flowers, while female plants have flowers that produce large orange fruits.