Kenya’s Plants
Kenya is more than just an average tourist’s vacation, it’s a destination filled with the wonders of nature. Unique plants learn to thrive in the harsh environments, and this one of a kind savanna is filled to the brim with them. Here, you can see all the beautiful plants on your trip to the African savanna, and you won’t regret the trip.
But what makes the greenery so special here? It’s the distinctive adaptations they've developed to live in these environments!
Plant Adaptations for the Savanna
Long Roots
Many plants have long root systems in order to soak up much needed water in the dry Kenyan wilderness
Fire-Resistant Bark
Many trees, like the enormous Baobab tree, have extremely thick bark so that they can survive wildfires
Water-Storage Organ
The plants are able to store water large amounts of water in order to survive the unforgiving dry season
Seasonal Leaf Loss or no Leaves
Plants have adapted to not have or lose leaves so that they can conserve water by not letting the water transpire unnecessarily through their leaves
Spines
Some plants have adapted to have sharp spines in order to ward off predators and defend themselves
The Grass
There are many different cool and distinct grass species that live in Kenya. Some of the most well known are rhodes grass, red oats grass, cutgrass, thatching grass, kangaroo grass, and elephant grass. They are essential for regulating the ecosystem and providing food for the vast amount of Kenyan animals
The Trees
The Trees
A major staple of the savanna are the trees. Although sparse, they are some of the most distinct plant life. Very notable trees include acacia trees, baobab trees, bushwillow trees, jackalberry trees, and whistling thorn trees. Aside from being a key shelter for birds, reptiles, and insects, the magnificent baobab tree is essential to the environment because it regulates soil conditions, recycles nutrients, and prevents soil erosion.
Shrub Life
Although thought of as insignificant, the shrubs in Kenya play a major role in the ecosystem. Some important shrubs include spurge, sickle bushes, buffalo thorn, and raisin bushes.
