Plant Life - Rain Forest and Lower Slopes Flora
Fauna Low Slopes > More in this Category > Geography > Historical Geology > Volcanic Centres > National Park Fauna > High Slope Fauna > Summit Fauna
Plant Life on Kilimanjaro truly is kaleidoscopic, from the dense canopies of green within in the tropical Rain Forest, to the fine wisps of lichen scattered across the Highland Desert. In a typical ascent up the mountain one would encounter biodiversity beyond the wildest imagination, stretching across at least five very different habitats.
Once upon a time the base of Kilimanjaro was covered only by lowland forest and wild bush. However, due to the fact that approximately 12 million Tanzanians make their living from subsistence farming, it is not surprising that these lower slopes are now dotted with fields of crops. Weaving between the banana trees and coffee plants are brilliant wild flowers and fine grasses, providing the ideal surroundings for birds and small animals.
Bordering the lower slopes of the mountain is the rich, diverse cocoon of the rain forest. Providing over 95% of all the water on Kilimanjaro, this ecological playground is literally brimming with life. Canopies of towering trees such as camphorwoods and heather trees stretch their giant lichen covered arms towards the sky, whilst the new leaves of exotic tree ferns appear almost luminous in the flickering light of the forest. Also soaking up the humidity are unusual mosses and striking wild flowers such as orchids, impatiens and violets.
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The Kilimanjaro Experience
