Discovering Tropical Plants in Tanzania

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Let’s Explore the Biodiversity of Tanzania on a Plant Safari!

Tanzania is a popular safari destination, due in large part to the Great Wildebeest Migration, but it is also an amazing place to discover the flora of East Africa! The tropical plants in Tanzania play an essential role in the country’s various ecosystems – from the dizzying heights of Mount Kilimanjaro to the vast, sweeping plains of the Serengeti, diverse plant species have adapted to extreme climates and learned how to thrive in harsh environments. Let’s take a closer look at the biodiversity of Tanzania and explore five of the most unique Tanzania native plants you will see on a trip to this East African nation!

The 5 Most Unique Plants in Tanzania

The biodiversity of Tanzania is incredible, and the numerous ecosystems within the country add to the variety of tropical plants in Tanzania. From drought-resistant graces and tall Acacias in the vast savannahs to delicate orchids and wildflowers at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, the flora of East Africa is on full display in Tanzania’s many ecosystems.

  • Baobab Tree: These striking trees appear almost ancient, with gigantic bottle-shaped trunks that store thousands of gallons of water. Baobab trees have a remarkable lifespan, with some trees estimated to be over 6,000 years old. The branches of a baobab tree resemble a root system, which gives the tree the appearance of being planted upside down! Tarangire Nation Park is one of the most famous destinations in Tanzania to visit if you want to see this unique and native tree.
  • Kilimanjaro Impatiens: This trumpet-shaped flower is native to the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, and thrives at an elevation of more than 11,000 feet high! Although it appears delicate, the Kilimanjaro Impatiens has adapted to survive in challenging, high-altitude environments and can be found growing in rocky terrain. This stunning flower ranges in color from white to pink to purple and is one of the most beautiful tropical plants in Tanzania.
  • Usambara Violet: These small, delicate plants are native to the East Usambara Mountains. Known for their distinct violet-blue or purple color and yellow center, these five-petaled flowers grow easily and are a popular ornamental houseplant. They are so easy to cultivate, that they are sold in nurseries and garden centers around the world. Enjoy the flora of East Africa long after your trip is over and purchase an Usambara Violet for your home today.
  • Fever Tree: The striking Fever Tree is found in Tanzania’s wetlands and along riverbanks. They are known for their bright yellow or greenish bark, which has reflective properties and is a clever adaptation that deters pests and protects the tree from extreme heat. Fever Trees provide shade and improve soil conditions, which has a positive impact on local wildlife and vegetation in Tanzania.
  • Bleeding Heart: A rare and unusual plant, the bleeding heart gets its name from the heart-shaped seed pods that are filled with red sap. The plant is typically found in lowland tropical forests and mountainous areas and is used in traditional medicine by some local communities.

What is Tanzania's national plant?

Of all the tropical plants in Tanzania, only one has the distinct honor of being named the country’s national plant! That plant is the syzgium aromanticum, more commonly known in English as “cloves.”  Cloves (or, in Swahili Mikarafuu) can be found scattered across the country in many ecosystems. The plant is easily recognizable by its slender stalks; thin, green leaves; and red flowers.

The Biodiversity of Tanzania: The Plants of The Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park is one of the largest parks in Tanzania. It is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem, which includes other game reserves and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Serengeti National Park encompasses 5,700 square miles, while the greater Serengeti ecosystem spans 10,395 square miles. The area is best known for its open grasslands and savannahs, although the region also includes plains, kopjes, marshes, and woodlands.

Perhaps the most famous ecosystem of the Serengeti is the savannah. Savannahs, often referred to as tropical grassland, reflect the incredible biodiversity of Tanzania. The most distinguishable feature of the savannah is grassy plains with scattered trees, although many Tanzania native plants flourish across the region. The Savannah typically has two seasons, wet and dry, which typically last six months each. Savannah grassland plants have developed unique characteristics to survive these extreme conditions.

Characteristics

Benefit to the Plant

Deep root system

Long and penetrating root systems are an evolutionary adaptation that allows the plants to extract even the slightest bit of moisture underground.

Thick bark

In areas where wildfires are present, thicker bark makes savannah trees more fire-resistant.

Water-storage organ

With drought common in the savannah, some tropical plants in Tanzania have evolved to hoard water. Trees like the Baobab tree have barrel-like trunks that store water and help them survive long periods without rainfall.

Seasonal leaf loss and absence of leaves

Shedding leaves seasonally (or not growing leaves at all) helps many Tanzania native plants conserve water.

Spines

Some plants do not lose their leaves; instead, they grow spines! This protective mechanism wards off herbivores and helps the species survive.


What Is the Most Common Plant in Tanzania’s Savannah?

The open savannah of the Serengeti is home to many Tanzania native plants. Some of the most common include grasses such as Bermuda, Elephant, and Red Oat; and scattered trees like the Acacia or Baobab. Visiting the game parks and preserves in the Serengeti will give you the chance to explore the wildlife and vegetation in Tanzania, as well as discover the astonishing variety of flora in East Africa!

Tropical Plants in Tanzania by Region

Tanzania has the greatest diversity of plant species in all African countries, except the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa. There are more than 9,000 tropical plants in Tanzania, most of which are native to the country. Here, we explore the by region.

  • Afro-Montane Region: This region covers the high mountain areas, including Kilimanjaro, Meru, Mgorongoro, Hanang, Rungwe, Mbizi, Makale, and the Eastern Arch Mountains. More than 25 percent of the plant species found in this region are native to Tanzania, including several species of wild coffee. This region receives high rainfall and is densely populated because of the favorable conditions for agriculture.
  • Lake Victoria Region: This region encompasses the area around Lake Victoria and the northern part of Lake Tanganyika. The relatively high rainfall has created a lush ecosystem of forests, although much of the woodland has been cleared for agriculture. However, the forests at Minziro are full of Tanzania native plants, including Podocarpus falcatus, or Podo tree. The bark of this tree contains tannins that local people use for tanning leather.
  • Somali-Maasai Region: In the central and northern parts of Tanzania, thickets, woodlands, and grasslands dominate the region. Acacia and Commiphora trees are common. Although this region sees much less rainfall than other regions, many Tanzania native plants Common to the region is the Cordyla desiflora, a bushy tree in the legume family with dense flower clusters and spreading branches.
  • Zambezian Region: Covering 40 percent of the country’s total land area, this region is mainly woodland with areas of tropical grasslands, savannas, and shrublands. Named for the oak-like "miombo" trees that dominate the area, the region is home to some 8,500 plant species; over 300 of which are trees.
  • Zanzibar-Inhambane Region: The eastern region of Tanzania consists mostly of coastal forests, woodlands, bushlands, and thickets. The woodlands of this region feature plentiful wild plants that are sources of local food and medicine for people.

A Plant Safari In Tanzania

The wildlife and vegetation of Tanzania are truly unique, making it a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to see both while on safari. Booking a small group tour with Gondwana Ecotours is a great way to discover tropical plants in Tanzania, as well as the incredible diversity of wildlife scattered across the savannahs. Contact Gondwana to learn more about their Tanzania Great Migration Tour and start planning your adventure in Africa today!

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