Kilimanjaro vegetation
The vegetation on Mount Kilimanjaro is divided into five zones defined by altitude. The cultivated zone (800-1800 meters) features some tropical bushes and grasses. In the rainforest zone (1,800-2,800 meters) the trees are densely hardwood, mossed up and full of epiphytes. The heath and moorland zone (2800-4000 meters) contains shrubs, huge groundsel and lobelia plants. In the alpine desert zone (4000-5000 meters), sparse lichens and grasses grow. The arctic summit zone (5000-5895 meters) is barren and only contains lithophytes. The sequence of changing from lush tropics to an icy sterile landscape portrays the vegetation of the mountain.
Giant Groundsels (Dendrosenecio kilimanjari)
Zone: Heath/Moorland and Alpine Desert (2,800–5,000 meters / 9,200–16,400 feet)
Description: One of the more distinct plants found in Kilimanjaro, these striking towering plants are a must-see. They look like enormous cabbages with legs, having thick stem bases and sprouting leaves at the tops. They can reach a staggering height of 6 meters (20 feet).
Why Famous: These prehistoric-like plants are native to Kilimanjaro and the adjacent eastern African mountains. Known as the survivors of alpine zone, they use their leaves to sustain freezing during nights. Insulation is provided through dead leaves, hence symbolizing resilience.
Trivia: These plants evolved from small groundsel species through millions of years, enduring extreme high altitude climates.
Giant Lobelias (Lobelia deckenii)
Zone: Heath/Moorland and Alpine Desert (2,800–5,000 meters / 9,200–16,400 feet)
Description: Sporting a stunning spike of purple to blue flowers, these lobelias bloom fully at 3 meters (10 feet) height. These tall spiked units with slender leaves are yet another attractive plant that stands vertically.
Why Famous: Like groundsels, they greatly adapted to the severe alpine conditions situated in Kilimanjaro. They survive dry conditions due to water storage in the rosettes and shield themselves from frost by closing up at night.
Fun Fact: Their roding from parrots such as sunbirds bring a splash of color to the lifeless regions on the upper slopes, adds another dimension of interest.
Giant Heather (Erica arborea)
Zone: Heath/Moorland (2,800–4,000 meters/9,200–13,100 feet)
Description: Distinct from other shrub heather species, these grow into shrubby trees up to 10 meters (33 feet) tall with needle-like leaves, and possess small pink to white flowers.
Why Famous: Characteristic of the heath zone, they shape the misty and ethereal landscape, forming the almost magical shrubland heathers field. These are outlong and compacted in size for heather species.
Fun Fact: This species is easy to ignite and wildfires sometimes alter this region.
